Current status: Answered by Angela Constance on 8 October 2024
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to protect the public's right to privacy, in light of Police Scotland's reported decision to use live facial recognition surveillance technology for the first time.
The use of live facial recognition technology is an operational matter for Police Scotland, under the scrutiny of the Scottish Police Authority. Police Scotland must also abide by the relevant laws; the European Convention on Human Rights; and the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner’s statutory code of practice.
The Scottish Government recognises that assurances are required in order to secure public trust and support for any future use of new technology by Police Scotland, including live facial recognition.
We stand ready to work with Police Scotland, the SPA, the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner and others to develop an approach to the use of facial recognition technology which is lawful, effective, proportionate and rights-based.