Tag Archives: law

Police face prosecution for obstructing photographers

June 18th, 2009

From the Press Gazette.

Police were warned today about wrongful use of anti-terror laws to stop photographers taking pictures of officers.

Lord Carlile QC, who reviews anti-terror legislation, said officers who use force or threats against photographers to make them delete images could face prosecution themselves.

Section 58A of the Counter-Terrorism Act, which came into force in February, bans photographers from taking pictures of the police if the photographs could be useful to terrorists.

Lord Carlile said this was a “high bar” and should not be used to interfere with day-to-day photography of officers which is “as legitimate as before”.

…

It is inexcusable for police officers ever to use this provision to interfere with the rights of individuals to take photographs.

(Hat tip: John Naughton.)

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Keep libel laws out of science

June 9th, 2009

Keep libel laws out of science

Simon Singh is currently being sued for libel by the British Chiropractic Association. Sense About Science has launched a campaign asking for reform of the English libel system so that it does not stifle scientific debate and journalism in general. Please sign the statement of support and encourage others to join the campaign. This is an issue that affects anyone who cares about science, journalism and free speech.

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One to keep in the camera bag

April 30th, 2008

One to keep in the camera bag

A couple of weeks ago I wrote to my MP Andrew Smith regarding the recent increase in incidents where photographers have been intimidated and threatened by police or security guards whilst taking photographs in public areas.

Today I received the following letter from Jacqui Smith MP (the current Home Secretary) via Andrew Smith:

Dear Andrew

There is no legal restriction on photography in public places, and there is no presumption of privacy for individuals in a public place.

It is for the Chief Constable to ensure that Officers and PCSOs are acting appropriately with regards to photography in public places, and any queries regarding this should be addressed to the Chief Constable.

However, decisions may be made locally to restrict photography, for example to protect children. Any questions on such local decisions should also be addressed to the force concerned.

Jacqui Smith

I’ll be continuing the dialog with Andrew Smith MP to see if there is anything further that can be done by the Home Secretary to remind her forces about this aspect of the law, as well sending my Chief Constable a copy of the letter.

You can find your own Chief Constable on the main UK Police Service site.

(I’ll now return you to the usual inane and irreverant japery that’s to be found round here.)

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