Some Cab Drivers Oppose CCTV

Some cab drivers oppose to the installation of CCTVs

15:32 24 October 2018

Some cab drivers oppose to the installation of CCTVs in their vehicles saying it is expensive and “may breach privacy.”

 

Cab drivers in Colchester may end up spending £600 to install a CCTV camera in their vehicles if new plans are approved.

 

Although studies and consultations have proved that CCTV would increase safety both for the passengers and drivers, drivers are angry at the cost and argued that it may breach privacy.

 

John Grice, of Reliance Executive Cars, said:  “The policy regarding the installation of CCTV in every vehicle will immediately remove from all members of the public a fundamental right granted under the recently introduced General Data Protection Regulations.

 

“As this is the case, it would seem right and proper that a public consultation should be held.”

 

Mike Lilley (Lab), Colchester councillor responsible for licensing, said: “The consultation for the CCTV has been ongoing for at least 12 months as we are ensuring we get it right in relation to what we are asking for and why.

 

“Providing we are compliant with data protection and the new GDPR there will be no reason as to why CCTV cannot be in all vehicles.

 

“The cost, which is one of the reasons for opposition, was based on us getting quotes from a couple of companies initially to gain an idea.

 

“It was pointed out in the last committee meeting that this is by no means definitive.

 

The authority’s licensing committee will decide upon the policy.