Live facial recognition to be used in Oxford Street during Festive shopping period

• During a London Assembly session in July, Sadiq Khan appeared to confirm that fixed live facial recognition cameras will be used as part of plans for Oxford Street pedestrianisation.
• The Metropolitan Police have now confirmed they “expect the fixed [live facial recognition] cameras to be put in place in December”.
• Recent polling commissioned by Liberty found that 48% of people oppose scanning the faces of people walking in high streets and town when there is no suspected imminent threat. This shows that more people oppose this use of the technology than support it (41%). 11% were unsure on its use.
• In the King’s Speech, the Government committed to introducing a legal framework for facial recognition through the Police Reform Bill. That legislation has yet to materialise and is not expected until the new year.

In response, Akiko Hart, Liberty director said:

“The introduction of fixed Live Facial Recognition cameras on Oxford Street will mean thousands of Christmas shoppers will have their faces scanned by this unregulated surveillance technology without being given a choice.

“Despite a public consultation on facial recognition closing in February, the Government has yet to publish its response. Yet permanent facial recognition cameras are set to be installed in one of the country’s busiest destinations without a legal framework to protect the public’s rights.

“This lack of transparency damages public trust, and until clear laws, proper safeguards and independent oversight is in place, this significant rollout should be paused.”