Lib Dems: Cloud security needs ‘urgent’ Government examination

The Government needs to look into security around cloud computing to stop the abuse of people's data, according to the Liberal Democrats.

During the party's annual conference this week, the smaller coalition partner outlined its own IT strategy, drawing specific attention to the cloud.

It noted the "growing popularity" of the model and recognised there were benefits to be had in the areas of consolidating IT, cutting costs and increasing efficiency.

However, the headline fears around data security and the wrong organisations having control of data was the major factor for the Liberal Democrats going forward.

"Cloud computing is an area where, if left unchecked, there is serious potential for abuse," read the party's policy document.

"Cloud is only attractive if it embodies the principles on privacy and data ownership, access, project management and procurement [of the Liberal Democrats]."

As a result of these concerns, it suggests the Government or more to the point its partners in leadership, the Conservative party needs to look at the security issues around cloud computing, specifically those of data locations and separation, "as a matter of urgency."

The one solid suggestion in the paper for cloud was to join globally with organisations, as well as states, to work out the rules participants should adhere to.

"Working with other governments and international bodies would seem best for monitoring and setting appropriate standards for cloud suppliers," the paper concluded.

The Government is expected to outline its plans for cloud computing next month when it publishes its G-Cloud strategy.