2024 MoU between JDPA/Jersey Information Commissioner and the UK Information Commissioner

Summary

This is a Memorandum of Understanding, effective 28 October 2024, between the Jersey Data Protection Authority/Jersey Information Commissioner (JDPA/JOIC) and the Information Commissioner for the UK and Northern Ireland (ICO). It establishes a non-binding framework for cooperation between the two regulators on enforcement and regulation of data protection and information rights laws, reflecting close economic and cultural ties between Jersey and the UK.

• Purpose: Sets out principles for cross-border cooperation, information exchange and mutual assistance between the two regulators, and reaffirms their intent to deepen existing relations.
• Scope of cooperation: Covers sharing of best practice, joint research, cooperation on specific projects (e.g. children's privacy, AI, regulatory sandboxes), exchange of non-personal investigation information, joint investigations into cross-border incidents, and annual bilateral meetings.
• Personal data: The MoU expressly does not cover sharing of personal data between the regulators; any future personal data sharing would require a separate written agreement.
• Non-binding nature: The MoU is explicitly a statement of intent only and does not create legally binding obligations on either regulator, nor does it modify existing laws or require cooperation or information sharing.
• Security and retention: Where information is shared, the receiving Participant should protect it according to its sensitivity/classification and dispose of it securely once no longer required.
• Termination: The MoU takes effect on signature and continues until terminated by either Participant giving two months' written notice.

The document does not impose any direct requirements on businesses, controllers or processors in Jersey; it is an inter-regulator cooperation arrangement rather than a source of compliance obligations for regulated entities.

Deadlines

• two months' written notice: Either Participant may terminate the MoU by giving two months' written notice to the other Participant.