Overview

The Trade (Disclosure of Information) Bill aims to clarify and regulate the sharing of information relating to trade between UK government bodies and other authorized entities. This involves streamlining the flow of information for analysis and policy-making purposes, while also implementing safeguards to prevent unauthorized disclosure and protect individual privacy.

Description

This bill primarily focuses on enabling the disclosure of trade-related information by various authorities.

HMRC Information Disclosure:

Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is permitted to share information to facilitate the work of ministers, devolved authorities, and international bodies on trade-related functions such as analyzing trade flows, assessing the impact of trade measures, and designing related policies. Unauthorized use or further disclosure of this information is strictly prohibited without HMRC's consent. Existing data protection and investigatory powers legislation remains in effect.

Other Authorities Information Disclosure:

Other public authorities (including specified government departments and certain organizations) can also disclose information to assist ministers in their trade-related functions. Similar restrictions on unauthorized use and further disclosure apply, with consent needed from the disclosing authority. The bill clarifies that such disclosures do not breach existing confidentiality obligations. The list of public authorities authorized to disclose information can be modified via regulations.

Offences Related to Disclosure:

The bill outlines offenses and penalties for the unauthorized disclosure of information under section 2, providing for imprisonment and/or fines. Defenses include reasonable belief that disclosure was lawful or the information was already public. Prosecution requires the consent of the relevant Director of Public Prosecutions.

Bill Expiry:

Sections 1-3 of the bill will expire if a Trade Bill is passed in the same session that contains similar provisions.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate or specify new government spending. However, facilitating data sharing could indirectly lead to more efficient policy-making and potentially cost savings in the long term. Conversely, enforcement of the new offenses and regulations might entail some additional costs for investigation and prosecution.

Groups Affected

• HMRC: Given new responsibilities regarding information sharing and consent.
• Other Government Departments and Agencies: Affected by their ability to share and receive trade-related information.
• International Organizations: Could benefit from increased data access for their trade-related functions.
• Businesses and Individuals: Their data will be subject to the provisions of the bill, with potential implications for privacy depending on how the information is handled.
• Law Enforcement Agencies: May be involved in investigating potential offenses under the bill.

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