19 Accepted

The NAO noted that DWP provided an example of good practice in transparency by setting...

Conclusion
The NAO noted that DWP provided an example of good practice in transparency by setting out in its annual report and accounts how it ensures that its use of data analytics does not result in adverse impacts 49 Q 37 50 Q 25 51 Q 74 52 Qq 69-70 53 Government Digital Service, Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard Hub, accessed 3 February 2026 54 Qq 71-72 55 Q 71 16 to customers.56 When we considered DWP’s 2023–24 accounts, we were concerned that the department’s use of data analytics and machine learning might have a detrimental impact on customers. DWP assured us that it had conducted a fairness impact assessment, but that it could not publish the results as they could assist fraudsters.57 Legislative challenges
Government Response Summary
The government states the recommendation is implemented and describes its ongoing mandatory rollout of the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS). DSIT is continuing to publish records, track compliance through its roadmap, and commissions departments twice a year to map new tools, also ensuring guidance on sensitive tools for fraud detection.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
5.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented 5.2 Ensuring departmental compliance is an ongoing effort for DSIT. DSIT updated the Committee as part of the Treasury Minute process at the end of 2025, and the Permanent Secretary gave oral evidence on this as part of the session on the use of data analytics to tackle fraud and error in January 2026. Below is a further update on progress with implementing the mandatory rollout of the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS). The rollout will continue to be tracked through the government's roadmap for modern digital government. 5.3 DSIT is continuing to implement the mandatory rollout of the Algorithmic Transparency Recording Standard (ATRS) in central government. Over 130 records have been published on GOV.UK to date. DSIT published records for all currently identified in-scope algorithmic tools (as of March 2025) in government departments (not including ALBs) by the end of 2025, reaching the commitment set in the Roadmap for Modern Digital Government. ATRS compliance is an ongoing process, with new tools being developed and deployed requiring ATRS records on a rolling basis. To reflect this, DSIT commissions departments twice a year to map new in-scope tools and supports them in completing records for publication. 5.4 The ATRS team work closely with relevant government bodies to ensure that the scope and exemptions policy provides the appropriate amount of guidance on sensitive tools such as those used in fraud detection and prevention. Updates and further guidance will be provided where needed.
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 27 Mar 2026