Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 38
38
The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted her disapproval of the current processes used for data sharing...
Conclusion
The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted her disapproval of the current processes used for data sharing between the governments. She described the current system of looking at data sharing opportunities on a benefit-by-benefit basis as a ‘work-in-progress’98 which may need to change to ensure swifter delivery of devolved benefits. The Cabinet Secretary commented that in some cases she is ‘concerned about the timelines’99 to agree data sharing for particular benefits. Building on this point the Cabinet Secretary told us that when data sharing arrangements become problematic between the governments this leaves the Scottish Government in a position where it is unable to fulfil its policy proposals.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
DWP considers fully and responds to all data sharing requests from the Scottish Government. It has established a dedicated Scottish Devolution Data Sharing Board, which brings together DWP experts to fully consider any requests and ensure that responses are managed consistently and efficiently. This Board considers any legal constraints and how these could be mitigated, ensuring there is protection of claimants’ rights, clarity of purpose, proportionality of data shared, and a consideration of whether DWP is the most appropriate source for the highest quality, most up-to- date data available. DWP is already working with the Scottish Government to ensure a clearer understanding of data processes. To do this, the Chief Data Officers of DWP and the Scottish Government have previously established a regular forum to address all aspects of sharing data across the two organisations. DWP’s Data Sharing Policy Statement has been shared with the Scottish Government to enable clear understanding between both organisations, and to ensure consistency. Each data sharing request must be examined, and the data decisions must be made and discharged by DWP, as the relevant Data Controller, in line with its legal accountabilities.