UK Data Bill & Automated decision-making

The UK’s Data Protection and Digital Information Bill is introducing tighter controls around automated decision-making. Finance firms using algorithms or AI for approvals, credit scoring, or trading signals need to prepare for changes now.

You can track the bill’s progress directly on the UK Parliament website.

What’s Changing

• Stricter requirements on when automated decisions can be made.
• Stronger transparency, clients may have rights to human review or explanations.
• Greater regulator scrutiny of how AI is deployed in financial contexts.

Implications for Finance Firms

• Hedge funds using AI for trading may need additional oversight.
• Automated client onboarding and scoring processes could require safeguards.
• Regulators (ICO, FCA) may request detailed documentation of your AI governance.

Steps to Prepare

1. Audit AI and automated processes: Identify where your firm uses algorithms in decision-making.
2. Strengthen documentation: Be able to explain how automated outcomes are produced and monitored.
3. Update governance: Align internal policies with the bill and regulatory guidance.

We work with finance clients to align IT systems and data processes with UK data protection requirements. From system audits to compliance documentation, Maple helps ensure firms are regulator-ready.

Don’t wait for the ICO or FCA to come knocking. By preparing now, with Maple as your IT partner, your firm can stay compliant while continuing to innovate with AI and automation.