by A.P.
The UK government has quietly ushered in a new law that lets police access National Health Service (NHS) Test and Trace data of people who are self-isolating.
This data is collected by the NHS via a website or phone call when an individual tests positive for the coronavirus and is told to self-isolate for 10 days. The NHS may also request and collect details of anyone that the individual has been in close contact with.
Under an amendment to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers and Self-Isolation) (England) Regulations 2021, police will be able to access this Test and Trace data “for the purpose of the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of offences under these Regulations.”
Offenses include organizing a large gathering of more than 30 people or opening a business venue that has been ordered closed under the UK’s coronavirus lockdown rules.According to Big Brother Watch, the government made this law without parliament.