The #SafetyNotSurveillance coalition is pushing for the new Labour government to implement a ban on artificial intelligence (AI)-powered “predictive policing” and biometric surveillance systems. The group, which includes organizations like Open Rights Group (ORG) and Big Brother Watch, believes that these systems disproportionately target marginalized communities such as racialized, working class, and migrant groups. They are calling for stricter regulations on all AI systems used in policing to protect people’s rights and prevent further harm.
Sara Chitseko from ORG highlighted the importance of regulating AI in policing to prevent discrimination and inequality from being amplified. The UK government’s previous plans to establish legislation on powerful AI models have not materialized, leaving a gap in regulation that could potentially lead to misuse of these technologies. Concerns about the effectiveness and ethical use of biometric surveillance technologies have also been raised, with warnings that the UK could be heading towards a surveillance state if these issues are not addressed.
Fraser Sampson, the former biometrics and surveillance camera commissioner for England and Wales, has expressed doubts about the actual crime prevention capabilities of facial recognition and highlighted the lack of oversight over biometric technologies by police. He also raised concerns about the retention of biometric data, including the unlawful retention of millions of custody images.
A House of Lords inquiry into the use of advanced algorithmic technologies by UK police found that these tools present significant risks to human rights and the rule of law. Predictive policing technologies were criticized for perpetuating discrimination, while facial recognition was seen as potentially infringing on privacy and leading to discriminatory outcomes. Despite these concerns, UK police continue to expand their use of facial recognition technology without proper scrutiny or regulation.