Summary
The UK Home Office plans to increase the use of facial recognition technology by police forces to help catch criminals. Public opinion is being sought through a 10-week consultation, and the government may introduce new laws to regulate its use and protect privacy. Facial recognition has already led to arrests, and the technology is considered as significant as DNA in solving crimes.
Key Facts
- The UK Home Office wants to expand police use of facial recognition technology.
- The public is being asked to give their views on this through a 10-week consultation.
- Facial recognition has helped the Metropolitan Police make 1,300 arrests since 2023.
- The technology is used to find suspects, vulnerable people, and those mistakenly released from prison.
- A new regulator may be created to oversee the use of facial recognition by police.
- The government invested £12.6 million in facial recognition in 2024.
- A new fleet of mobile vans is being used by various police forces to expand the technology's use.
- New laws informed by the consultation would primarily affect England and Wales but also relate to certain powers in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
