Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if he will take steps to standardise data security protocols for digital device donation, in the context of tackling digital exclusion and reducing e-waste.

The Government announced a device donation pilot on the 26^th February, running to August 2025. We will be working with Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) to refurbish end-of-life laptops from DSIT, DESNZ and DBT and distribute them to those who need them most.

The Government uses an accredited partner with ADISA certification to sanitise devices, meaning each is wiped securely before being collected.

DPA conducts additional verification for recipients of devices, including offering Data Erasure and Data Destruction Reports for processed devices.

We are looking into solutions for standardising protocols for disposal of data to encourage device donation by industry.