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Dear Friends and Colleagues - an update, as promised.
Today, I have notified the Rt Hon Ian Murray, Minister of State (Minister for Digital, Government and Data) of my resignation from the roles of… | John Edwards
Dear Friends and Colleagues - an update, as promised. Today, I have notified the Rt Hon Ian Murray, Minister of State (Minister for Digital, Government and Data) of my resignation from the roles of Information Commissioner, and Chair of the Information Commission, effective immediately. Since February of this year I have been the subject of an investigation. While I have not agreed with how that investigation has been conducted, I accept that my position has become untenable. From the time the investigation was launched, I have accepted that there have been occasions where I exercised poor judgement and made attempts at humour that were inappropriate and caused offence. It is for this reason that I have decided that it is appropriate that I resign from my position. I do not wish to be a distraction to the ICO’s important work. The rapid advancement of technology presents enormous opportunities, but it must be safe and accessible for everyone. Unfortunately, that is not always the reality. As technology continues to evolve, and the AI tsunami breaks over us, we must redouble, and continuously adapt our collective efforts to ensure safety, accountability, and trust online. No single organisation or country can address these challenges alone. Collaboration domestically and internationally between regulators and policymakers is critical to ensure societies can enjoy the benefits of innovation safely and equitably. I am proud to have worked alongside dedicated staff and partners within the ICO, the wider UK regulatory community and internationally to advance those shared objectives. While I will no longer be able to continue this work in my current role, my commitment to the principles, values, and objectives that have guided my professional life remains unchanged. I am proud of the contribution I have made and look forward to continuing to support this important work. I would like to thank colleagues, stakeholders, and supporters for the opportunity to serve in the role of the UK's Information Commissioner, and I wish the organisation every success in the future.
