THE GOVERNMENT is to review the number of automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) in use on Britain's roads.
Home Secretary Theresa May has ordered a look at the way the army of 4,000 cameras is used following calls from privacy campaigners.
At present the network of hi-tech cameras log more than 10 million vehicles every day.
Speaking to the Guardian newspaper, Home Office Minister James Brokenshire said:
"Both CCTV and ANPR can be essential tools in combating crime but the growth in their use has been outside of a suitable governance regime.
"To ensure these important technologies continue to command the support and confidence of the public and are used effectively, we believe that further regulation is required.
"We are examining a number of options and will also be considering the work of the interim CCTV regulator, who is due to report to ministers shortly."
Despite calls for restrictions on the camera network's use, the system has led to a significant number of important arrests since its inception.
