Tag Archives: granted

Google Granted Special Status by Watchdog to Enforce Changes in UK Search Practices

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Google is encountering mandatory changes in its search operations within the UK, following the competition regulator’s decision to grant the company special status and impose stricter regulations.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has confirmed that Google holds a “strategic market position” (SMS) in both search and search advertising. This classification indicates that the company wields sufficient market power to necessitate a unique regulatory framework.

The regulator now has the authority to mandate alterations in how Google conducts business in these sectors, as per new digital legislation. This announcement on Friday marks the first time a tech company has been recognized with an SMS designation.

The CMA has already indicated several potential changes, such as providing internet users with the option to select a different search service through a “choice screen.” This could include AI-driven competitors like Perplexity and ChatGPT among the available options.


The CMA is also looking to ensure equitable ranking of search results and to provide publishers with greater control over the usage of their content, including responses generated by AI. Features such as AI Overview and AI Mode powered by Google’s AI are also included under the SMS classification.

The CMA clarified that its ruling does not imply any wrongdoing and that no immediate actions will be enforced. However, this year it intends to initiate discussions regarding potential alterations to Google’s operations.

Will Hayter, executive director of digital markets at the CMA, asserted that enhancing competition in realms like search and search advertising—which involves advertisers paying to appear in users’ search results—could foster new business opportunities and stimulate investment throughout the UK economy.

He stated: “Over 90% of searches in the UK are executed on Google’s platform, underscoring Google’s continued strategic role in search and search advertising.” He added, “In response to the feedback we received post our proposed decision, we have today designated Google’s search service with a strategic market position.”

Oliver Bethel, Google’s senior director of competition, expressed concerns that this decision might jeopardize UK users’ access to emerging products and services.

He commented: “Several of the intervention ideas proposed in this process could hinder innovation and growth in the UK, potentially delaying product introductions at a time when AI-based advancements are rapidly progressing.”

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Tom Smith, a competition lawyer at Geradin Partners and former CMA legal director, noted that there is a substantial case against Google.

He remarked: “There exists a clear basis for eliminating some of the market distortions caused by Google’s monopolistic stance. This has already been addressed in the US and EU. Today’s ruling empowers the CMA to take similar action.”

In a separate inquiry, the CMA is evaluating whether Google’s and Apple’s mobile platforms should be classified as SMS-enabled under the newly established digital regulatory framework outlined in the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Chinese researchers granted access to 500,000 UK GP records raises concerns about data protection

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Chinese researchers have been granted access to British Grand Prix records of half a million, despite concerns from Western intelligence agencies about the authoritarian regime’s accumulation of health data, as revealed by the Guardian.

The records are set to be transferred to UK Biobank, a research hub housing detailed medical information from 500,000 volunteers. This extensive health data repository is made accessible to universities, scientific institutions, and private companies. Guardian analysis indicates that one of the five successful applications for access originates from China.

Health authorities had been evaluating the need for additional protection measures for patient records as they are integrated with genomes, tissue samples, and questionnaire responses at UK Biobank. Personal details such as date of birth are stripped from UK Biobank data before sharing, but experts warn that in some instances, individuals could still be identifiable.

Despite warnings from MI5 about Chinese entities accessing UK data under the direction of China’s intelligence agency, UK Biobank, which oversees health data, has recently given clearance for Chinese researchers to access GP records.

As UK Ministers cozy up to Beijing in pursuit of economic growth, the decision reflects a delicate balance to avoid antagonizing the influential superpower, which prioritizes biotechnology advancement. The UK-China relationship is already under strain due to issues like the ownership of a China-owned steel factory in Scunthorpe and new regulations on foreign interference.

A government spokesperson emphasized that security and privacy are paramount considerations when utilizing UK health data for disease understanding and scientific research. They reassured that health data is only shared with legitimate researchers.

The UK Biobank has been a major success in advancing global medical research, according to Chi Onwurah, a Labour MP heading the Congressional Science and Technology Committee. She stressed the need for a comprehensive government strategy to ensure data control and secure, responsible data sharing in the geopolitical landscape.

Approval of access to patient records

Out of 1,375 successful applications for UK Biobank data access, nearly 20% come from China, second only to the US. Chinese researchers have leveraged UK Biobank data for research on topics like air pollution and dementia prediction.

In recent years, the US government has imposed restrictions on BGI subsidiaries due to concerns about their collection and analysis of genetic data potentially aiding Chinese military programs. Nevertheless, UK Biobank approved a research project with a BGI unit, emphasizing the need for strict compliance with UK data laws.

The UK Biobank representative dismissed claims of genetic surveillance or unethical practices by BGI, stating that the focus is on civilian and scientific research. The UK Biobank continues to engage with MI5 and other state agencies to oversee data use, including collaborations with Chinese entities.

Despite some opposition, patient records are being transferred to UK Biobanks and other research hubs as part of a directive from the Health Secretary. Access to these records is strictly regulated by NHS England based on security and data protection considerations.

NHS England requires overseas data recipients to be authorized for access to personal data in compliance with UK data laws. Regular audits ensure that data sharing processes meet security standards. Chinese researchers can now apply for access to GP records through the approved platform.

China is “developing the world’s largest biodatabase.”

Data repositories like UK Biobank play a crucial role in global research efforts, with some experts cautioning about China’s intent to leverage genomic and health data for biotech advancement. Intelligence sources suggest that health data could be exploited for espionage if anonymization is breached.

MI5 raised concerns about China’s National Intelligence Act and its implications for personal data controllers interacting with Chinese entities. China’s ambition to develop a vast biodatabase has drawn scrutiny from intelligence officials worldwide.

Privacy advocates have questioned the transfer of UK health data to China, urging vigilance against potential misuse in “hostile states.” UK Biobank has revamped its data sharing practices to enhance security and ensure that patient data is safeguarded.

Despite the concerns, UK Biobank CEO Professor Rory Collins underscores the importance of explicit consent from volunteers for studying health data, particularly GP records.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Chinese AI Chip Company Recently Blacklisted Over Arms Concerns Now Granted Access to UK Technology

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Chinese engineers are developing artificial intelligence chips for use in “advanced weapons systems” and have been granted access to cutting-edge British technology, as reported by the Guardian.

Moore Thread and Viren Technology, described as “China’s leading AI chip designers,” have been subject to U.S. export controls for their chip development. It is noted that the technology can provide artificial intelligence capabilities for the advancement of weapons of mass destruction, advanced weapons systems, and high-tech surveillance applications that raise national security concerns.

Before being blacklisted in the US in 2023, the companies had a broad license with UK-based Imagination Technologies, known for its expertise in designing advanced microchips essential for AI systems.

Imagination Technologies, a representative of the UK technology industry, denied intentionally trying to relocate its cutting-edge secrets to China. Representatives from Imagination confirmed the existence of licenses to Moore Thread and Viren Technology.

Allegations have arisen regarding Imagination’s partnerships with Chinese companies and the potential risks of knowledge transfer. Tensions between business with China and national security concerns have been highlighted by these developments.

Since 2020, at least three Chinese companies have obtained licenses to use Imagination’s chip designs, raising concerns about the potential misuse of intellectual property.

Imagination has worked closely with Apple in the past, contributing to the development of iPhone chips. However, concerns have been raised about the risks of sharing too much of its intellectual property with Chinese companies.

The acquisition of Imagination by a Chinese-backed buyer in 2017 raised further concerns about technology transfer and national security implications.

Imagination’s arrangements with Chinese customers are considered “totally normal” and have been described as limited in scope, duration, and usage rights.

Imagination’s policy of not doing business with companies on the US government’s Entity List raises questions about the termination of licenses granted to Chinese companies in October 2023.

A new report from the UK and China transparency research institute sheds light on further questions surrounding Chinese companies’ relationships with Imagination.

Moore Thread and Biren Technology, two Chinese chipmakers, have faced scrutiny for their development of GPUs for AI systems with potential ties to Imagination’s technology.

Funding for Biren Technology comes from the Russia-China Investment Fund, sparking concerns about deepening alliances between China and Moscow in the tech industry.

Source: www.theguardian.com