Body worn video to be used during police interviews with suspects

The Home Office is planning to allow the use of body worn video to record interviews with suspects carried out by police officers and has begun a consultation on the new regulations that will allow this change in procedure

The move follows a number of successful roll-outs of body worn video by police forces across the UK, primarily for use in collecting evidence while on patrol. New plans mean that for the first time, officers will be able conduct interviews away from the station.

Speaking of the consultation, minister for policing and the fire service, Nick Hurd said: “Having met officers across England and Wales, I’ve seen how technology is bringing 21st century solutions to age-old policing problems.

“I want our police officers to have access to the best possible equipment, and to be able to use it to bring greater efficiency to frontline policing.”

He continued: “We will keep looking for ways to save time and work more effectively, and we will do everything we can to support forces as they adapt for the future.”

According to the Home Office, protection for interviewees will also be strengthened as part of the project. This includes the setting-out of suspects’ rights in full, as well a clearer definition of ‘vulnerability.’