John Edwards

John Edwards is a former New Zealand public servant who was the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner from 2014 to 2021, then the United Kingdom Information Commissioner from 2022 until his resignation in 2026 , after an independent investigation determined that he had a "case to answer" in relation to allegations of sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying On his resignation, Edwards stated that he had "exercised poor judgement and made attempts at humour that were inappropriate and caused offence". and practised law in Wellington for over 20 years specialising in information law.

New Zealand Privacy Commissioner Edwards was the New Zealand Privacy Commissioner, first appointed in 2014 and held the post until 31 December 2021.

United Kingdom Information Commissioner On 21 December 2021, Edwards was formally appointed by letters patent as the United Kingdom's sixth

During the investigation, Edwards agreed to "step back from all contact with ICO staff", "not enter ICO offices", and not "represent the ICO publicly". It was confirmed that Paul Arnold (Chief Executive) and the executive team continued to lead the ICO in accordance with the ICO's scheme of delegation. In a reply to a Freedom of Information Act Request, the ICO confirmed on 27 May 2026 that Edwards would continue to earn his salary during his leave of absence.

On 10 June 2026, the ICO announced

Liz Kendall, UK Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, stated on 19 June that she had "seen evidence of the vulgar and highly sexualised language that was used in [Edwards'] interactions with his staff", and that she is "extremely concerned" that Edwards "describe these incidents as misplaced humour". She says that "ultiple women shared testimony to the investigator on feeling offended, shocked and uncomfortable following interactions with [Edwards]." :"Mr Edwards' actions were completely at odds with our values. We do not accept sexual harassment, bullying or discrimination in any form and have clear policies in place to deal with issues such as these. We're committed to ensuring a safe culture where all staff are able to raise concerns, knowing they will be taken seriously and trusting that action will be taken where appropriate. This must include concerns raised about the behaviour of the holder of the important and privileged role of Information Commissioner.

Our priority continues to be providing a safe and supportive environment for our staff. We have been unable to comment as the investigation was ongoing, but our utmost focus has always been on supporting those affected. We thank all ICO colleagues for their professionalism and especially those who courageously shared their experiences as part of the independent investigation."At a Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee meeting on 8 July, Liz Kendall revealed that Edwards was preparing to file legal papers against one of the female employees who had raised concerns about him, and she was "appalled by that behaviour".