Cameras violate fundamental right to privacy

Woking councillors have formally criticised Surrey Police for deploying vans equipped with facial recognition technology across the town. The vehicles, which began operating on 26 November in Surrey and Sussex, use advanced software to identify criminals, suspects, and individuals recalled to prison.

A coalition of independent, Labour, and Liberal Democrat councillors on Woking Borough Council has urged the suspension of the program, citing concerns over residents' privacy and its disproportionate effect on ethnic minority communities. "We must carefully consider how new technologies impact our citizens," they stated.

Surrey Police defended the initiative, emphasizing its role in public safety and noting that two arrests had already been made using the system. The force also stressed that images of individuals not on the watchlist are deleted immediately, aiming to protect personal rights.

However, councillor Mr Bonsundy-O'Bryan raised concerns about potential bias, particularly against women and ethnic minority groups. He highlighted that the decision to introduce the technology involved limited consultation and little transparency regarding data handling. He warned that, because residents cannot opt out of being recorded, the scheme could undermine fundamental privacy rights.

Early trials of the technology reportedly showed error rates as high as 81%, disproportionately affecting Black, Asian, and minority ethnic individuals. Surrey Police countered that improvements in the national algorithm have significantly reduced gender and ethnic bias and that the deployment was carefully planned to ensure fairness.

Despite the controversy, the police maintain that the technology is a valuable tool for law enforcement and public safety, with two successful arrests already recorded.

Author: Sophia Brooks