LIBE resolution on draft UK adequacy decision ignores real-life health implications

The European Parliament Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) has published its resolution on UK adequacy of personal data protection.

Commenting on this, Layla McCay, director of policy at the NHS Confederation, said: “The resolution from the LIBE objecting to the draft UK adequacy of personal data protection decision ignores the real-life implications for health and the European healthcare sector overall. However, we are heartened to hear that MEPs from two parties have drafted amendments and a second resolution in response.

“Recognition of the adequacy of the UK data protection regime is vital to make sure both the UK and EU health sectors can function properly. The decision is instrumental to addressing cross-border health threats such as COVID-19, enabling the movement of professionals and facilitating crucial research, development, and co-operation. European collaboration, underpinned by data transfers, improves patient outcomes, and ultimately saves lives. The NHS fully supports the European Health Stakeholder Group’s efforts to highlight the real-life implications of EU-UK data transfers for the European health care sector.

“When the vote on the resolutions takes place at the European Parliament plenary on 20 May, we urge MEPs to protect the European healthcare sector by approving the draft adequacy decision. Time is running out. The interim data sharing arrangement will expire on 30 June and the ratification process for UK adequacy must conclude before this cliff-edge to provide much-needed legal certainty for patients and the healthcare sector.”