Statement from the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner
The Home Secretary has appointed Tony Eastaugh CBE in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments. He has given a statement upon his appointment.
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.
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.