How much data will Brexit remove from the EU? 1 GB

This somewhat jovial remark passed around the internet post 31st January 2020 got me thinking.  Would the amount of data created change as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the European experience?

Let’s consider the consequences:

1.     GDPR.  These rules, instigated by the European Union, have had repercussions around the world as all entities having any interactions with European counterparts – internal and external – not just those bounded directly by the Brussels protocols.  As such, the UK’s role – either inside or outside the EU – will require UK businesses to continue to obey this directive.  If anything, any relaxing of the rules for UK-centric data will result in duplicated systems, for both GDPR compliant and GDPR non-compliant data sources.  Net result?  Probably an INCREASE in data storage requirements.

2.     Border Controls.  Hard borders, soft borders, floating barrages across the Irish Sea, whatever form they end up taking eventually will result in more red tape, more scrutiny…and more data.  Net result? Another INCREASE.

3.     New trade deal between the UK and the Rest of the World.  Each new trading agreement adds volumes of terms and conditions previously encompassed in agreements with the EU.  These additional agreements will consequently increase demands for data.  Not only that but the UK will also have to have some arrangements back with the EU, assuming ‘NO DEAL’ is avoided. 

In all, whilst the UK ‘Brexit’ is no laughing matter, the opening headline exemplifies the British ability to laugh at themselves; humour often being used to cover embarrassment, shame or stupidity.  While Brexit may remove 1GB from the EU, I am pretty sure it will add terabytes to the data businesses and governments consume going forward.  And as a data storage salesman, I can only hope that leads to laughing all the way to the bank!