New regulator could be introduced to oversee its use…

Facial recognition technology could be used more often by UK police forces, according to new plans announced by the Home Office.

Policing and crime minister Sarah Jones said a widespread rollout of the equipment could mark “the biggest breakthrough” in catching criminals since DNA matching.

People are being asked for their views on its use, as part of a 10-week consultation launched on Thursday, possibly paving the way for new laws.

The government has also proposed to create a regulator overseeing police use of biometrics and facial recognition.

Jones credited the technology for helping to arrest “thousands” of criminals, but campaign group Big Brother Watch said increased use would make George Orwell “roll in his grave”.

“Facial recognition is the biggest breakthrough for catching criminals since DNA matching,” commented Jones. “We will expand its use so that forces can put more criminals behind bars and tackle crime in their communities.”

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for facial recognition, Lindsey Chiswick, said live facial recognition was already subject to strong safeguards, but stressed “public trust is vital”.