The Protection of Freedoms Bill now awaits royal assent to become law. It has various pieces relevant to the private security sector. In brief they are –
Brings in a new framework for police retention of fingerprints and DNA data, and requires schools to get parents’ consent before processing children’s biometric information.
Introduces a code of practice for CCTV camera systems and provides for judicial approval of certain surveillance activities by local authorities.
Provides for a code of practice to cover officials’ powers of entry, with these powers being subject to review and repeal.
Outlaws wheel-clamping on private land.
Introduces a new regime for police stops and searches under the Terrorism Act 2000 and reduces the maximum pre-charge detention period under that Act from 28 to 14 days.
Restricts the scope of the ‘vetting and barring’ scheme for protecting vulnerable groups and makes changes to the system of criminal records checks.
For background on the Bill, visit – http://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2012/april/protection-of-freedoms-bill-ping-pong-update/