Back in May 2010 in the Queen’s speech the government announced that they would be introducing legislation which would ‘restore freedoms and civil liberties through the abolition of identify cards and unnecessary laws’.

Subject to Parliamentary process the bill is expected to receive Royal Assent before the end of the current session which will be Easter 2012.  Currently the bill is subject to Public comment which will mean the mean the public have the opportunity to comment on or make suggestions on individual clauses.

What will the Protection of Freedoms Bill cover?
The Protection of Freedoms Bill will cover many aspects such as holding of DNA, wheel clamping, detention without charge, and it also includes changes to CCTV.

The old system: CCTV systems, including Automatic Number Plate Recognition (APNR) cameras, are not subject to any special regulations specific to them or their use. However, the use of personal data captured by CCTV is subject to regulation as is the covert use of CCTV systems by local authorities.

The new system: The government promised to “further regulate CCTV” in the coalition agreement. If this bill becomes law the home secretary will be required to publish a code of conduct on using CCTV and other surveillance cameras. Further details on the public consultation can be found on the Home Office website

A new Surveillance Camera Commissioner will be appointed to monitor the operation of the code and must report annually to Parliament. (Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12536138)

Subject to Parliamentary process the bill is expected to receive Royal Assent before the end of the current session which will be Easter 2012.  Currently the bill is subject to Public comment which will mean the mean the public have the opportunity to comment on or make suggestions on individual clauses.

12 Week Consultation Period
The CCTV User Group are leading an industry response to this consultation – therefore we urge anyone within the industry to read the consultation documents and to voice their opinion! There is a 12 week consultation period, so time is of essence on this.

What is your view of the changes  – do you support or have concerns about the changes? We’d love to hear your views!