Home Secretary appoints new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner

Home Secretary, James Cleverly, has appointed Tony Eastaugh as the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, in accordance with the Governance Code for Public Appointments.

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, and to promote appropriate overt use of surveillance camera systems by relevant authorities in England and Wales.

The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill currently before Parliament will simplify oversight by abolishing the roles and transferring the biometrics casework functions to the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office.

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

“It’s a privilege to have been appointed as the Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, and I am looking forward to building on the superb work of my predecessors until the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill comes into effect in the spring. Thereafter, I will oversee a seamless transition of the function of this office into the new structures.

Tony Eastaugh, Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner

“Until then, my priorities will be to ensure that the biometrics casework, including National Security Determinations, is up to date and in good order to transfer 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. Additionally, I will be working with stakeholders to explore how some of my current responsibilities (that are not specifically mandated for transfer in the Bill) will be given continuity and upheld.

“Whilst 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.”

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