New conversations: the BILETA and Information Technology Think Tank collaborative consultation response programme

The progress of information technology (IT) in the past few decades has, of course, created new opportunities but also unprecedented challenges to the existing legal framework. The rights and duties of IT providers and end users have been facing a paradigm shift from conventional norms and it is encouraging to note that institutions at national, regional and international levels have sought evidence to assist in delivery an up-to-date legal framework for a digital society. The BILETA and ITTT programme provides an open forum for academics working in IT to engage collaboratively and proactively with this policy-making and to disseminate more widely their research in respect of contemporary issues. Submitting responses to consultations should in turn provide an opportunity to bring about identifiable influence on the economy, society, public policy the key goal of impact and also to maintain and develop the position of BILETA as a leading stakeholder in the IT field. The programme has also provided an opportunity for wider engagement with professional practice, civil society and industry, and for conversations regarding the positions which others might take to a consultation.