In conversation with John Edwards, Information Commissioner
b"The Institute for Government was delighted to welcome John Edwards, the UK Information Commissioner. He was in conversation with the Institute\\u2019s Director of Research Emma Norris. \\n\\nProper use of public data is key for maintaining trust in public bodies, as well as ensuring that government services run well. As the UK's independent data protection watchdog, the ICO is at the heart of discussions over data use and how to find the balance between privacy and transparency. \\n\\nSo what steps can be taken to improve government transparency over data? Is it time to reassess how the UK\\u2019s Freedom of Information laws work? What will be the impact of the Online Safety Bill \\u2013 and what changes will the government be introducing to this much talked about piece of legislation?\\n\\nJohn Edwards discussed his strategic priorities as Information Commissioner, the challenges faced by the ICO, and ICO25, the ICO\\u2019s new strategic plan. \\n\\nJohn Edwards was appointed as the UK\\u2019s sixth Information Commissioner last December, and began his role at the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in January. He previously spent eight years as New Zealand Privacy Commissioner."