“This revised code of practice on CCTV is intended to replace the last revision which was published in 2008.  The aim of this revision is to reflect the developments in existing technologies that have taken place since the last revision, to discuss the emergence of new surveillance technologies and the issues they present, to reflect further policy development in areas such as privacy impact assessments, to explain the impact that new case law has had on the area of surveillance systems and to reflect the wider regulatory environment that exists when using surveillance systems.

• Consultation response document (pdf)
• Consultation response document (Word)
• Draft – revised CCTV code of practice (pdf)
• Responses to this consultation must be submitted by 1 July 2014.

Because although CCTV clearly has its benefits, it can also clearly be intrusive. What thought’s been given to the views of the people it will be filming? What’s going to happen to the hours and hours of recorded footage and information? And what other less intrusive ideas have been thought about? The guidance we’ve put out for consultation includes a good example around body worn cameras. The camera may prove invaluable if switched on by a Parking Enforcement Officer when they fear someone is becoming aggressive, but does it need to be recording when someone has simply stopped them to ask for directions? But it’s not just technology and practice that have changed. The regulatory environment has too, with specific legislation aimed at some operators of surveillance cameras. The ICO has taken enforcement action involving both number plate recognition and cameras recording people’s conversations in taxis. The revised guidance deals with these changes too. And getting it right is more important than ever. Not only does the Data Protection Act continue to put clear obligations on organisations using CCTV, but public opinion is perhaps much stronger than 14 years ago. There’s awareness by the public of the benefits and drawbacks of surveillance. The Department of Transport’s recent consultation on whether local authorities are now going too far in their use of cameras to detect parking and other offences shows continued public and political concern. Although our original code was revised back in 2008, it’s important that it’s bang up to date. This doesn’t just help operators comply with the law and adopt good practice; it helps them inspire public trust and confidence in their surveillance activities. Take a look at the revision and tell us what you think.”