The Government Technology Innovation Strategy

The government’s Technology Innovation Strategy policy paper  explains that joint with DCMS, Oliver Dowden CBE MP will be working to ensure the safe and effective use of digital identities across the UK economy. In relation to data and technology, the policy outlines that the government will work collaboratively with stakeholders to support the development of the digital identity market. 

UK Government Technology Innovation Strategy https://t.co/pyZOHxn4qO – must read many innovations, a masterclass in how Governments should approach Technology and a forms a Global Template for other governments.

— GovTech Research (@GovTechResearch) June 10, 2019

Expert Comments:   

Julie Dawson, Director at Regulation Yoti:  

“We welcome the new DCMS & GDS unit which will have a key focus on identity. However it is key that this body recognises that 1) the consumer has to come centre stage and 2) consumers want to use their digital identities across the private and public sector. We encourage this unit to consider how best to create a level playing field and a healthy ecosystem that works for consumers.   

“As techUK highlighted earlier this year in their white paper, digital identities are the key for consumers to unlock the full benefits of digital innovation. Not only can they be used to give us a simpler and safer way of proving our age when buying age-restricted items without having to show physical ID documents, they could also be used to securely interact with government services online, prove our identity to businesses and swap verified details with other people online. This needs government to adapt legislation to be able to accept digital identities, and to acknowledge parity with physical documents.   

“This new government unit needs to recognise that private sector companies also need to have access to public data sources so there is a level playing field for all identity providers. One of the main drawbacks of Gov.UK Verify was that it initially started with government use cases, but people interact with the private sector far more day to day. Additionally, any identity system needs to give consumers utility and protect consumers’ identity and personal data.”