We, the undersigned, demand an immediate nationwide ban on the use of Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology in all public spaces across the UK.

 

This technology is being rolled out without democratic consent, oversight, or proper safeguards. It enables real-time surveillance of innocent people, often without their knowledge—violating the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly.

 

Multiple studies have shown that facial recognition systems are dangerously inaccurate, especially when identifying Black people, women, and young people. This reinforces systemic racism and contributes to predictive policing that criminalises entire communities.

 

We refuse to live under constant watch, judged by algorithms that are flawed, biased, and unaccountable.

 

We call on:

• The UK Government

• The Metropolitan Police

• All local authorities

• The Mayor of London

 

to:

1. Immediately halt all use of live facial recognition.

2. Introduce legislation that permanently bans its use in public spaces.

3. Launch an independent inquiry into its prior deployment and impact.

 

This is not safety. This is surveillance.

We deserve better.