Important Facts of the News
- Professor William Webster appointed as Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner.
- Post has been vacant since August 2024.
- Prof Webster replaces interim commissioner Francesca Whitelaw KC.
- He began his 2-year term on 1 November 2025.
- Role involves overseeing DNA, fingerprints, and Surveillance Camera Code compliance.
- Professor Webster has 25+ years of experience in surveillance governance.
- Current position: Professor at the University of Stirling.
- Also Director of the Centre for Research into Information Surveillance and Privacy.
Professor William Webster Takes Charge
The Home Office has officially confirmed the appointment of Professor William Webster as the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner. He takes over a role that had been unfilled since August 2024. During the interim period, Francesca Whitelaw KC provided leadership from July 2025.
Mandate and Responsibilities
Professor Webster has been entrusted with key statutory duties. His remit includes monitoring police forces in England and Wales on the handling of DNA profiles, DNA samples, and fingerprint data. He is also responsible for ensuring adherence to the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice issued by the Home Secretary.
Academic and Policy Background
A distinguished academic, Professor Webster serves as a Professor of Public Policy and Management at the University of Stirling. He also directs the Centre for Research into Information Surveillance and Privacy. His expertise spans surveillance governance, ethics, digital oversight, and public policy, with more than 25 years in the field.
Views from the New Commissioner
Professor Webster expressed enthusiasm upon assuming office on 1 November 2025. He highlighted the transformative impact of emerging technologies, such as biometrics and artificial intelligence, on security and privacy. His focus will be on reviewing police submissions for the retention of biometric data and ensuring faithful implementation of the Surveillance Camera Code.
Government Perspective
Policing and Crime Minister Sarah Jones has welcomed the appointment, describing Professor Webster as an experienced and capable leader in the sector. She underlined the government’s commitment to maintaining public trust while ensuring effective law enforcement through responsible use of biometrics and surveillance systems.
Looking Ahead
In his new role, Professor Webster aims to collaborate with various stakeholders to strengthen regulatory frameworks for surveillance technology. His tenure will extend until October 2027, during which he will oversee key developments in digital oversight, ethical surveillance, and data protection in policing.