
Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, have had plans to use Facebook and Instagram user date to train generative AI.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), shared concerns with Meta that they had received from users in the UK. The ICO were subsequently pleased to report that Meta have responded by pausing and reviewing their plans.
ICO reported: “In order to get the most out of generative AI and the opportunities it brings, it is crucial that the public can trust that their privacy rights will be respected from the outset.”
ICO have confirmed that they will continue to monitor all the major developers of generative AI to check they have appropriate safeguards in place and make sure that the information rights of UK users are protected.
See: https://ico.org.uk/about-the-ico/media-centre/news-and-blogs/2024/06/statement-in-response-to-metas-plans-to-train-generative-ai-with-user-data/

HMRC have updated guidance on UK VAT refunds for non-UK businesses in a VAT group. Revenue & Customs Brief 10 (2026) explains changes to how non-UK businesses in a VAT group should make future UK VAT refund claims and the transitional arrangements. It also explains how to ask HMRC to reconsider claims made since 1 January 2021 that have been refused.

Mayors across England are to be given the power to charge a tourist tax on overnight stays which would apply to British and foreign visitors alike.
