Although DSIT acts as the ICO’s sponsor within government, it is an independent regulator and accountable to Parliament in how it carries out its duties.

The Data (Use and Access) Bill, which was introduced in the House of Commons on Thursday 6 February, introduces a new governance structure for the ICO – including a new statutory board - to bring it into line with regulatory best practice. The Bill also seeks to introduce new reporting requirements on the ICO, including annual metrics on its investigations, their outcomes and use of its powers. This will bring greater transparency and accountability.