Government appoints new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner

The Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner roles were established by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, which set out the rules on police use and retention of DNA and fingerprints, in order to promote the appropriate overt use of surveillance camera systems by relevant authorities in England and Wales.

The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, which is currently laid before Parliament, will “simplify oversight” by abolishing these two roles and transferring the biometrics casework functions to the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office. It’s a decision that has caused a great deal of controversy and, it must be said, displeasure and concern within the security sector.

Tony Eastaugh was previously the Director General for Immigration Enforcement and served as a Commander in the Metropolitan Police Service for 12 years.

Seamless transition

Commenting on the appointment, Tony Eastaugh noted: “It’s a privilege to have been appointed as the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner. I’m looking forward to building on the superb work of my predecessors until such time that the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill comes into effect. Thereafter, I will oversee a seamless transition of the Commissioner’s function into the new structures.”

Eastaugh added: “My immediate priorities will be to ensure that the biometrics casework, including National Security Determinations, is up-to-date and in good order for transference to the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office. I will also be closely reviewing the use of S63G applications within police forces to bring about increased safety and security for our communities.”

In addition, Eastaugh will be working with stakeholders to explore how some of the current responsibilities of the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner that are not specifically mandated for transfer in the Bill will be afforded continuity and upheld.

Eastaugh concluded: “While in post, I intend to engage with as many of the key parties operating in this critical arena as possible. I will be listening, learning and fully contributing to the evolving and growing biometrics and surveillance camera landscape.”