Understanding the Transfer of Functions (Digital Government) Order 2025

The UK government is reshuffling the digital deck! This new legislation, officially called the Transfer of Functions (Digital Government) Order 2025, is all about moving certain digital responsibilities from one department to another. Let’s break it down.

What’s Happening?

The main goal here is to transfer the oversight of various digital services from the Minister for the Cabinet Office to the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology. This includes the Government Digital Service and the Central Digital and Data Office. The idea is to streamline who’s in charge of what when it comes to digital governance.

Why the Change?

Back in July 2024, it was announced that digital responsibilities would shift to better align with the UK's technological ambitions. By placing these functions under the wing of the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, the government hopes to foster innovation and better manage digital initiatives.

What’s Affected?

• Web and Mobile Accessibility: The powers related to ensuring public sector websites and mobile apps are accessible will now be overseen by the Secretary of State.

• Digital Economy Act 2017: This Act’s Part 5 will see a division of labor. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology will handle public service delivery, while the Cabinet Office will continue managing public sector debt and fraud.

Legal and Legislative Context

This order is all about formalizing the shift in responsibilities and ensuring that all legal instruments align with the new setup. It’s a necessary step to update the law so it reflects who’s actually in charge.

Impact on Businesses and the Public

Worried about how this might affect your business or charity? Don’t be. The Order is more about internal government changes, so there’s no expected impact on businesses, charities, or even small enterprises.

Human Rights and EU Laws

Rest assured, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has confirmed that the Order is compatible with human rights standards. Plus, it doesn’t relate to any recent EU legislation changes.

In summary, the Transfer of Functions (Digital Government) Order 2025 is a strategic move to enhance the UK’s digital management by placing it under a department that’s all about science and innovation. This change aims to keep the UK at the forefront of digital development without causing any disruptions to businesses or the public sector.