ICO developing strategy to promote safe adoption of AI

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has published a further response to a January request from the Technology Secretary and the Business Secretary calling for the regulator to publish a plan before the end of May 2026 explaining how it intends to promote safe innovation in artificial intelligence (AI).

In its response, the ICO explained that, building on previous commitments and its AI and biometrics strategy, it is developing an updated workplan for 2026/27, focusing on two core objectives: 

• Ensure the UK public understands how AI systems process personal data, granting individuals appropriate choice and control. 
• Clarify data protection laws for organisations deploying AI and agentic systems, while demonstrating high levels of compliance.

To achieve this, the workplan commits to:

• Develop a statutory code of practice for AI and automated decision-making, 
• Publish guidance on how to implement GDPR compliant agentic systems
• Streamlining its Innovation and Sandbox services
• Address public concerns about the personalisation of consumer-facing AI
• Release a consumer guide on the responsible use of AI tools and applications
• Publish a transparency resource to support public and commercial sectors, particularly SMEs. 

The ICO will report annually on the progress of this plan.

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