The CCTV User Group welcomes the appointment of Fraser Sampson as the new independent Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner (BSCC).
The appointment was announced on March 9, 2021, by the UK Home Secretary. The new BSCC combines two roles that were previously separate offices: the Surveillance Camera Commissioner and the Biometrics Commissioner. Previously held by two part-time appointees, the new role is a full-time position.
Promote compliance with the Surveillance Camera Code
The UK Home Office said in a statement that Fraser Sampson, who took up his post on March 1, 2021, will promote compliance with the Surveillance Camera Code and rules on police use of DNA and fingerprints.
Peter Webster, Director of The CCTV User Group, welcomed Fraser’s appointment, stating “We welcome the appointment of the new commissioner to oversee and promote compliance with the CCTV Code of Practise. Fraser comes to the office with excellent credentials, and we look forward to working with him in his new role to promote high standards in the use of CCTV surveillance for public safety and security.”
Importance of public space CCTV systems
The members of the CCTV User Group welcome the appointment of Fraser Sampson"
Ilker Dervish, Vice Chair of The CCTV User Group, commented “The members of the CCTV User Group welcome the appointment of Fraser Sampson as the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner as a clear confirmation that the Home Office continues to recognise the importance of public space CCTV systems in our communities.”
Ilker Dervish adds, “We are sure that Fraser Sampson’s experience and expertise will be a valuable contribution to the continuing development of regulations, guidelines and standards signposting a clear path to more effective and professional use of video surveillance systems.”
CCTV Code of Practise
The position of Surveillance Camera Commissioner had been unfilled since the departure of Tony Porter in December 2020. Tony held the office and successfully promoted the code of practise for seven years.
The CCTV Code of Practise is based on a document originally produced by The CCTV User Group, which was adopted and developed by the first SCC, Andrew Rennison.
- Network / IP
- Biometrics
- IP video surveillance
- Electronic security systems
- Physical security
- Public sector security
- Security management
- Security policy
- Security devices
- Security installation
- Security cameras
- PTZ cameras
- Covert cameras
- Security camera systems
- Security access systems
- Network monitoring
- Electronic access control
- Fingerprint recognition
- Fingerprint scanner
- Building security
- Facility security
- Security training
- Public security
- Network cameras
- Door access control
- IP Surveillance
- Security service
- HD CCTV
- Physical Security Information Management (PSIM)
- IP security solutions
- Security communication
- Corporate Security
- Network Video Recorders
- Mobile access
- Video surveillance
