I am today announcing publication of the Government’s response to the public consultation on a new legal framework for law enforcement use of biometrics, facial recognition and similar technologies in England and Wales.

The consultation sought views on which types of data, technologies and activities should be covered by the framework, who the framework should apply to and what safeguards and oversight should be in place to protect privacy and other rights. It received over 13,800 responses from members of the public, academics, industry, regulators, civil society groups, the police and others.

Analysis of responses showed support for a new statutory framework for use of technologies like facial recognition by the police and others. Respondents emphasised the importance of strong safeguards, transparency, accountability, effective independent oversight and the protection of individual rights.

That is why the Police Reform Bill will introduce a new framework to underpin use of Biometric and overt surveillance systems for law enforcement and some safeguarding purposes, by the police and other public bodies. The framework will ensure policing can innovate in a repeatable and consistent manner, supporting adoption of emerging biometric and overt surveillance technologies that improve policing effectiveness and public protection. New powers will be supported by a statutory Code of Practice, and a new independent oversight body will monitor and enforce compliance.

Consultation responses also raised questions about private-sector uses of biometric technologies. The Police Reform Bill will therefore also contain complementary measures to ensure rules for private-sector uses of technologies like facial recognition for the prevention and detection of crime are consistent with law enforcement use, where this is appropriate.

A copy of the Government response and supporting materials will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses and published on GOV.UK.