The Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner's annual report for 2023 to 2024 has been laid in Parliament today.
Read the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner's annual report 2023 to 2024 .
The report sets out the observations of the Commissioner in relation to his responsibilities for overseeing police use of DNA and fingerprints in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and for encouraging the proper use of public space surveillance cameras.
The report covers the period April 2023 to March 2024 and was produced by the then Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner Tony Eastaugh who stepped down from his post in mid-August, having been appointed Commissioner in a time-limited capacity, as the role was due to be abolished under the Data Protection and Digital Information (No.2) Bill. Mr Eastaugh took over from Professor Fraser Sampson who resigned on 31 October 2023. The report therefore covers the tenure of both Commissioners.
The report was sent to the Home Secretary on 10 October 2024, and discusses a number of matters including:
National Security Determinations (NSDs): there has been a fall in the number of NSDs made by chief officers in this reporting period - it has been recognised how vital a tool NSDs are, allowing the lawful retention of individuals assessed to present a real risk to national security
an increase in use of Section 63G powers: there has been another encouraging rise in the number of times that police forces sought to use their powers to ask the Commissioner for permission to keep DNA and/or fingerprints of people who are arrested, but not convicted, of qualifying offences - however, concerns remain that the power continues to be underused by many forces
reflections and comments on some of the achievements of the office and the most recent incumbents of the roles
We understand that Home Office ministers are considering the appointment of a new Commissioner. In the absence of a Commissioner the Office will be happy to deal with
