Written question asked by Lord Wallace of Saltaire (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 12 March 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 March 2020. It was answered by Baroness Barran (Conservative) on Thursday, 19 March 2020 on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Data Processing: Public Sector

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government whether, and if so, when, they will lay before Parliament the Framework for Data Processing by Government document, as provided for in section 191 of the Data Protection Act 2018.

Answer: The Data Protection Act 2018 gives the Secretary of State a discretionary power to publish a Framework for Data Processing by Government, which contains guidance about the processing of personal data in connection with the exercise of government functions. The Act requires the Secretary of State to consult the Information Commissioner and other persons he considers appropriate when developing the Framework, and to lay the final version in Parliament before it comes into effect. A laying date has not been set and no decisions have been taken about the nature of any further consultation.

Secondary information