VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Shoplifting: Crime Prevention

Asked by David SimmondsConservativeHome OfficeTabled Answered 8 September 2025UIN 71448

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what guidance she has provided to high street retailers on whether they may (a) share details of suspected shoplifters with other retailers and (b) post photographs of suspected shoplifters.

Answered by Sarah Jones

It is the legal responsibility of retailers to decide on a case-by-case basis if it is necessary, proportionate and lawful to share personal details of alleged shoplifters.

The Information Commissioner’s Office provides guidance on data sharing, including for retailers. The Home Office has worked with retailers and the Information Commissioner’s Office to support retailers in lawfully and safely sharing information amongst themselves and with police for the purposes of preventing, detecting and investigating shop theft.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim