Reform UK has pledged to scrap the UK's GDPR data protection regime, arguing it "strangles" small businesses, and replace it with a "light-touch" alternative modelled on New Zealand's system. Leader Nigel Farage and economy spokesman Robert Jenrick unveiled the plan alongside other pro-business promises, framing it as part of a broader effort to cut regulation and taxes for Britain's roughly six million small firms. Critics, including Labour, dismissed the proposals as vague and unworkable, noting Reform UK is itself currently facing a High Court data protection lawsuit.

The UK's Information Commissioner can currently fine businesses millions of pounds for GDPR breaches, whereas New Zealand's equivalent regulator is limited to fines of up to NZ$50,000, though its rules impose broadly similar restrictions on data handling. Reform's wider package includes reversing 2024's National Insurance rise, scrapping income tax on overtime pay, easing inheritance tax on farms, raising the VAT registration threshold from £90,000 to £150,000, and axing the 2035 Zero Emission Vehicle mandate. Shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride said the plans "collapse on contact with reality" and lacked detail, while Labour accused Farage of trying to distract from scrutiny of a £5 million donation from an overseas crypto-billionaire.