UK Data Use and Access Act

The UK Data Use and Access Act is a proposed framework designed to improve data sharing and access across sectors while upholding strong privacy protections. It builds on the UK's National Data Strategy and aims to promote responsible data-driven innovation by clarifying the legal basis for data access and reuse, particularly for public interest and research purposes.The Act introduces measures to reduce friction in data-sharing between organizations, ensure equitable access to data, and establish governance structures for secure data sharing. It proposes the use of Smart Data schemes and mandates sector-specific regulations to facilitate safe, interoperable, and privacy-preserving access. Although not yet enacted, it reflects the UK government's strategic shift toward a pro-growth, innovation-friendly data economy, while maintaining transparency and accountability.This proposed regulation is highly relevant to financial institutions, healthcare organizations, research bodies, technology companies, data intermediaries, and public sector agencies involved in data sharing and analytics across the UK.