Police order pubs to 'spy' on customers with CCTV

PUBS are being told to "spy" on customers with CCTV, it emerged today.

Pub owners who have applied for a licence both in Islington and Richmond have been warned that they must first install cameras.

Publicans also have to promise to hand over to the police any footage requested. Experts said that the plan raises "serious privacy concerns" but police claim it will help to fight crime.

David Smith, the deputy information commissioner, said: "Installing surveillance in pubs to combat specific problems of rowdiness and bad behaviour may be lawful, but blanket measures where there is no history of criminal activity is likely to breach data protection requirements."

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "Boroughs may impose blanket rules to prevent crime and disorder."

Other forces are adopting similar tactics. Martin Reed, a licensing officer for Essex Police, said that the force asks every licensed premises in the county which is open after 11pm to have cameras to take head shots of customers entering the building.