The surveillance camera code of practice has come into force. Covering only public sector users of CCTV, the code sets out guidelines for CCTV and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. Among other things, it requires that the use of CCTV is open and proportionate and that they are able to capture quality images, fit for purpose.
For a Home Office circular visit the Home Office website.
It follows Andrew Rennison’s appointment as the first surveillance camera commissioner last year. The commissioner will encourage all operators to comply with the code and report back to parliament with any concerns. As featured in the January print issue of Professional Security, when Mr Rennison went through the draft code to the Public CCTV Managers Association (PCMA) Christmas meeting at Tamworth, the code is centred on the principle of surveillance by consent – much like policing by consent, the idea being that the public feels cameras are not there to spy on them, but to protect them.
The Home Office Minister for Criminal Information Lord Taylor of Holbeach said: “This government believes both CCTV and ANPR are both vital tools but it is crucial they are focused on aiding the fight against crime and protecting the public. I am pleased we now have in place a code that, together with the work of the independent surveillance camera commissioner, will better harness these technologies and help put an end to CCTV systems growing without proper oversight.”
Police and public authorities will need to heed the code but the government has committed to reviewing its scope in 2015 – which could mean that private sector users of CCTV have to abide by the code.
Surveillance camera commissioner Andrew Rennison said: “This is an important first step, the journey starts now. I will be looking for action by the relevant authorities and providing tools that help them and others who are encouraged to adopt the code to be transparent, open and effective in their use of surveillance cameras.
The surveillance camera code of practice, which has been approved by parliament, is part of the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012.
