Overview

This bill aims to regulate the use of automated decision-making systems in the UK public sector. It seeks to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the use of algorithms by requiring impact assessments, providing for independent dispute resolution, and establishing a Minister for algorithm standards.

Description

The bill mandates Algorithmic Impact Assessments (AIAs) for all new or procured automated decision systems used by public authorities (excluding those related to national security or simple calculations). These AIAs must assess benefits, risks (including privacy and data security), and include bias testing to ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010. Public authorities must also provide explanations to individuals affected by algorithmic decisions and establish monitoring processes to ensure compliance and data accuracy. The bill requires employee training on algorithm use and logging of system operations. It prohibits procuring systems that are difficult to scrutinize and establishes an independent dispute resolution service for challenges to algorithmic decisions. Finally, a Minister for algorithm standards will be appointed, responsible for overseeing the implementation of the bill and reporting to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, it will likely involve costs associated with implementing the new regulatory framework, including staffing for oversight, the establishment of the independent dispute resolution service, and potentially funding for training programs. The exact financial implications will depend on the detail of future regulations.

Groups Affected

• Public Authorities: Will face new responsibilities for conducting AIAs, implementing monitoring processes, providing explanations to citizens, and training employees. They will also need to ensure compliance with new regulations.
• Individuals: Will benefit from increased transparency and accountability in public sector decision-making. They will have access to explanations of decisions affecting them and recourse through an independent dispute resolution service.
• Businesses: Companies providing automated decision systems to the public sector will need to adapt their products and services to comply with the bill's requirements.
• Data Protection Organizations: Increased scrutiny of data usage and algorithmic bias will likely increase the workload of data protection organizations.

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