Following the ICO's announcement back in March 2016, Elizabeth Denham has been formally approved as the next UK Information Commissioner from Summer 2016.
The UK Culture, Media and Sport select committee approved Elizabeth Denham as the new UK Information Commissioner on 27 April 2016. Subject to receiving final approval from Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth Denham will succeed Christopher Graham as Information Commissioner in Summer 2016.
Jesse Norman MP, Chair of the Select Committee, said:
"The Committee noted with interest Ms Denham’s views on a range of
topics, including the possible retention of emails as official records,
the extension of FOI and directors’ liability for data breaches, in
particular. We also noted Ms Denham’s track record on data protection with
Government in British Columbia, and her proactive approach to protection
of privacy with major international technology companies."
Elizabeth Denham has previously said:
"I am honoured to be nominated for the position
of Information Commissioner for the UK. I believe the rapid pace of
technological change we face will continue to accelerate and present
challenges to information rights – we must ensure access to information
while maintaining high standards of data protection. The Information
Commissioner’s Office has a global reputation for practical, innovative
and responsive regulation. I look forward to contributing to this work."
Elizabeth Denham is currently the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia. She is an inspired choice for the position. The UK regulator will need the wealth of her experience and as much stability as possible given all the changes coming under the new European General Data Protection Regulation. We are delighted to hear that Elizabeth's recommendation has been approved by the Select Committee and wish her much success in the new role.
