More Mass Surveillance

The state wants to record our journeys wherever we go, using its Automatic Number Plate Recognition system (ANPR)…

The story has been rumbling in the press for a couple of months now. The most recent is the Independent in December.

“Britain is to become the first country in the world where the movements of all vehicles on the roads are recorded. A new national surveillance system will hold the records for at least two years.”

The Observer picked it up in October.

“A network of hi-tech cameras capable of tracking the movements of every car could become a feature of cities across Britain.”

And the Times featured it in November.

“BRITAIN’S top traffic policeman is pushing through plans to create a national network of roadside spy cameras that will be able to track the movements of motorists around the clock.

Meredydd Hughes wants the cameras to be installed every 400 yards on motorways, as well as at supermarkets, petrol stations and in town centres.

They are designed to crack down on uninsured driving, road tax evasion and stolen cars, but will also monitor millions of law-abiding drivers.”

In some ways it is surprising that it hasn’t been more high profile. Although, the low key dripping effect must suit those who want to bring the thing about – no mass uprising and anger – anyway, automatic number plate recognition has been about for a while, so why worry? Well, the key phrase is that last one; “but will also monitor millions of law-abiding drivers.” Where I go on my motorcycle is no one’s business but mine. The police do not need to know my whereabouts in order to catch criminals. This is classic authoritarian over-reaction to a problem – treat everyone like criminals in the hope of catching some real ones – Guilty until proved innocent again.

Put aside the logistical nightmare of the burgeoning database for a moment, and ask just why would anyone want to bother? It certainly isn’t for our benefit. All that stuff about tax and insurance evasion just doesn’t add up – it is a minor problem compared with the proposed solution, particularly as it is relatively easily overcome if you have the will and means. And, before anyone mentions The War Against Terror (TWAT) – that doesn’t add up, either. Any half decent terrorist or criminal will simply clone their vehicles. It isn’t that difficult, all you need is the relevant details of a vehicle of the same make and model and put a copy of its number plate on your vehicle. Then you may do what you like with relative impunity, evade tax and insurance if you want, the hapless owner of the real numberplate picks up the tab. Of course, this is simple if you have the relevant connections; if you are a law abiding citizen, it is somewhat more difficult. Try wandering into your local auto store and asking for a replacement numberplate. You will have to provide evidence that you are who you say you are and that you own the vehicle – my wouldn’t an identity card be useful for that? Why didn’t I think of it?

So, the powers that be are getting a wet dream over recording our vehicle movements and we, the innocent law-abiding citizenry are to be treated like criminals. Again.

The state is not your friend