Pension schemes’ specific experiences of data collection should factor into the government’s future approach to artificial intelligence (AI) data regulation, according to Zedra.

The call for evidence, Data regulation in the age of AI and other data-intensive technologies, asked for practical examples of how data regulation interacts with AI and other data-intensive technologies, including where existing legal, technical and governance arrangements create uncertainty or friction.

Zedra said it was important for schemes to share their experiences of data collection and processing to help shape future regulation.

Commenting, Zedra senior client manager and cyber and data lead, Victoria Roberts, said: “The pensions industry has an important perspective to contribute to the government’s call for evidence, given the abundance as well as sensitivity of member data and the number of organisations typically involved in its collection, processing and use.

“With AI changing how data is collected, processed and used, it is important that the regulatory framework keeps pace to ensure it remains fit for purpose. For pension schemes, this is particularly relevant.”

Roberts said the call for evidence is particularly relevant to pensions because large volumes of member data can move across a complex network of trustees, administrators, advisers, technology providers and other third parties, while trustees remain accountable for ensuring that members’ interests are protected.

She added: “Any future approach to data regulation needs to recognise this reality and provide clarity around accountability, governance and the appropriate use of data across these relationships.

"Trustees need to be able to understand not just what data and where data is held, but how it is being used, including where AI-enabled technologies form part of the process.”

Roberts continued that AI innovation needs to be “underpinned by effective governance and guard rails that adequately protect members interests”.

The call for evidence closed for responses on 9 September 2026.

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