Overview

This bill aims to temporarily ban the use of automated facial recognition technology (AFRT) in public spaces across the UK while a comprehensive review of its use is conducted. The review will assess the technology's impact on human rights, data protection, accuracy, and the current regulatory framework, ultimately recommending whether the ban should be lifted.

Description

The bill establishes a moratorium on the operation, installation, or commissioning of AFRT equipment in public places. AFRT is defined broadly to encompass any equipment capable of automatically detecting and biomedically recognizing faces from still or moving images, regardless of when identification occurs. "Public place" is also defined broadly to include any location accessible to the public. Exceptions exist for activities authorized under specific sections of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.

Penalties: Individuals violating the moratorium face penalties of up to 51 weeks' imprisonment and/or a fine in England and Wales, or 6 months' imprisonment and/or a fine in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Review: The bill mandates a review of AFRT use within three months of the bill's passage, with a report due within one year. The Secretary of State will establish the review's terms of reference, which must include consideration of equality and human rights, data protection, technology accuracy, the regulatory framework, and recommendations on addressing identified issues. The review panel will be independent of the government.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to costs associated with commissioning and conducting the review of AFRT. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Law enforcement agencies: May face restrictions on using AFRT in public places during the moratorium, potentially impacting crime investigation and prevention.
• Private companies: Companies using or planning to use AFRT in public spaces (e.g., for security purposes) will be affected by the moratorium.
• Civil liberties groups: Likely to view the moratorium positively, pending the outcome of the review.
• The public: May experience a change in public safety and surveillance levels during the moratorium. The outcome of the review will impact future use of AFRT and its implications for individual privacy.

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