News | CCTVIma g e
Government launches consultation on new CCTV code of practice
THE GOVERNMENT is seeking views on a new code of practice that will encour- age more effective use of CCTV systems, ensuring they are only used proportionately and are more focused on aiding the fight against crime. The draft code, launched on 7 February,
is based on the principle of surveillance by consent – meaning the public can be confident that cameras are not there to spy on them but to protect them and help in the fight against crime. Surveillance by consent is a concept that
was developed by and is being championed by CCTV commissioner Andrew Rennison who warns that public support for CCTV could evaporate if owners of CCTV systems fail to be sufficiently transparent about their systems (see “Regulator balances security, liberty” on page 10). According to the Home Office, the aim
of the new code, which is mandated by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, is to give the public the power to hold the police and local authorities to account through greater transparency and is designed to improve
Minister for criminal information Lord
Taylor of Holbeach said: “Used effectively, CCTV and ANPR are crucial tools for cut- ting crime and protecting the public but for too long we have seen these systems grow and develop without any proper framework or oversight. “Through this code of practice, and with
an independent commissioner, we will ensure that for the first time there is a robust framework in place, one focused on helping the police and local authorities to cut crime, which will ensure CCTV and ANPR are used appropriately.” The consultation, which runs until 21
Lord Taylor of Holbeach
the effectiveness of CCTV and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR). The code will provide straightforward
guidance, helping the police and local authorities to increase image quality and boost the chances of catching criminals.
March, will seek views on the scope and clarity of the draft code and its likely impact. According to the director of the CCTV
User Group, Peter Fry, early responses to the draft code indicate that members of the Group are largely supportive of it but har- bour a few reservations especially in regard to the cost of compliance (see page 5). For more information on the consultation, visit
www.bit.ly/YuQm3Y.
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