Biometrics: Privacy

The Police Reform Bill will introduce a new legal framework to underpin law enforcement use of biometrics, facial recognition and similar technologies, making it clear when use of these technologies can be justified, including creation of a single, expert body to provide independent advice and oversight.

In the meantime, there is an established legal basis for use of Live Facial Recognition Technology, which has been tested and confirmed by the Courts, and includes compliance with data protection, equality, and human rights laws. In addition, users of the technology must comply with College of Policing guidance and their own published policies. This means privacy rights are considered in relation to use of live facial recognition technology, which can only be used for a policing purpose, where necessary, proportionate, and fair.

For example, police can use live facial recognition only for targeted, intelligence led, time-bound deployments. During deployments, images of those passing the camera are compared only against a specific watchlist of individuals wanted by police or courts, and images of people who are not a match are immediately deleted.

To inform the new legal framework governing law enforcement use of facial recognition, biometrics and similar technologies, the Government launched a public consultation on 04/12/2025. The consultation explored when and how technologies like live facial recognition should be used and asked the public what factors are relevant to consider when assessing interference with privacy and other rights. The Government response to the consultation will be published in due course.