The Law Society welcomes Data Act but raises concerns
20 Jun 2025
1 minute read
News
As the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 receives royal assent, the Law Society of England and Wales welcomes its impetus to modernise data use but remains concerned over data protection, legal safeguards and data adequacy.
The act makes it easier to share information for public services like the NHS and gives businesses better access to data to improve services and customer satisfaction.
However, checks and balances must be able to ensure privacy protections, especially about personal data.
More clarity is needed around how AI and other tech companies can use copyrighted content without permission.
The Law Society recently had the opportunity to respond to the government’s copyright and AI consultation to address this issue.
Law Society chief executive Ian Jeffery said: “The new act affects the legal sector by updating rules around data compliance, privacy and data adequacy. The act supports innovation but there must be safeguards and protections for using personal data and publicly available content.
“The government needs to ensure that the UK retains its EU data adequacy decision so that data continues to flow smoothly. This is crucial to provide confidence to UK businesses, lawyers and clients and ensure that England and Wales remain the global jurisdiction of choice.
“Wider data considerations still to be debated, including copyright rules and AI regulation, should aim to protect and benefit the public, fairly balancing the interests of content creators and tech developers.”
The Law Society is celebrating 200 years of supporting solicitors in England and Wales. It is the independent professional body that works globally to support and represent solicitors, promoting the highest professional standards, the public interest and the rule of law.