Information Commissioner John Edwards has resigned after an independent workplace investigation concluded that his behaviour fell short of the standards expected of a senior public official, with Science Secretary Liz Kendall citing evidence of “vulgar and highly sexualised” language used towards staff.
Mr Edwards, who has held the role since early 2022, stepped back from his duties at the end of February to allow the probe to take place. In a statement on Friday, he admitted exercising “poor judgment” and making “attempts at humour that were inappropriate and caused offence”, but said he disagreed with aspects of how the investigation was conducted. He described his position as “untenable” and did not wish to become a distraction for the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Investigation Findings and Government Response
The ICO confirmed the resignation on June 19, stating that Mr Edwards had submitted it to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) as a Crown appointee accountable to Parliament. The investigation concluded there was “a case to answer” and that his conduct breached the organisation’s Dignity at Work Policy, Code of Conduct and the Nolan Principles of Public Life.
Science Secretary Liz Kendall expressed strong criticism, revealing she had seen evidence of “vulgar and highly sexualised language” in Mr Edwards’ interactions with staff. In an official Government response, Ms Kendall stated: “Multiple women shared testimony to the investigator on feeling offended, shocked and uncomfortable.” She praised those who came forward, stressing a government zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment, bullying and discrimination.
Impact on the ICO and Regulatory Work
The ICO’s board and executive team have been leading the organisation since February to maintain continuity in its critical regulatory work. The watchdog oversees data protection, freedom of information law and the regulation of artificial intelligence in the UK. It has the power to issue fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover for serious breaches.
Mr Edwards’ departure is unprecedented. Data protection specialist Jon Baines of Mishcon de Reya told the BBC that no previous Information Commissioner since the role’s creation in 1984 had resigned before completing their term. The Government is expected to appoint a new chair, as the role is imminently due to evolve into an Information Commission.
Calls for Reform from Campaign Groups
Campaign groups have seized on the resignation to call for wider reform. The Open Rights Group’s Jim Killock called the development “a chance for the Government to appoint a regulator with teeth”, criticising the ICO for allegedly failing to properly handle thousands of public data complaints. The Good Law Project has also challenged the watchdog’s approach.
In his farewell statement, Mr Edwards said he was proud of his contributions and those of ICO staff, and that his commitment to data protection principles remained unchanged.
