Five must-read stories from the intersection of tech, business and politics

From MPs slamming the ICO over data protection failures, to the impending dangers of a police “mega-database”, here are five key technology stories this week. By NS Tech.

By Julian Turner

CCTV cameras: Despite a landmark ruling that found the South Wales Police's use of facial recognition to be unlawful, the Met Police continue to use the technology. Credit: Shutterstock

From MPs slamming the ICO over data protection failures, to the impending dangers of a police “mega-database”, here are five key technology stories this week. By NS Tech.

Ofqual advisor: Prioritising grade inflation was a political decision

Jo-Anne Baird, a member of Ofqual’s independent advisory group, told NS Tech that the decision to prioritise preventing grade inflation came from the top – contradicting education secretary Gavin Williamson’s denials.

ICO challenged by MPs over failure on “unlawful” Test and Trace programme

A cross-party group of more than 20 MPs have challenged the UK’s data watchdog over its failure to enforce data protection standards for the Test and Trace programme – which led to the programme being found unlawful.

Privacy group warns of Home Office “mega-database” on the horizon

A new “mega-database” for law enforcement could lead to over-policing and discrimination against ethnic minorities if not subject to parliamentary scrutiny, warns rights group Privacy International.

Met Police will continue to use facial recognition tech despite “unlawful” ruling in Wales

The Met Police continues its commitment to using facial recognition technology, despite the outcome of a landmark court case that found South Wales Police was using the tech unlawfully.