Whitelaw, a King’s Counsel since 2023 and an expert in public law, policing and national security, assumed the role on 1 July for a period of up to six months
The government has named Francesca Whitelaw KC as interim Biometrics Commissioner, filling a key oversight post that has remained vacant since August 2024. The move comes as ministers continue the search for a permanent Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner.
Whitelaw, a King’s Counsel since 2023 and an expert in public law, policing and national security, assumed the role on 1 July for a period of up to six months. Her appointment follows the principles of the Governance Code on Public Appointments.
During her interim tenure, she will oversee casework functions under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, including scrutiny of National Security Determinations and police applications under section 63G of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).
The post of Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, which combines oversight of the state’s use of both facial recognition and other biometric technologies, has remained unfilled for nearly a year. While Whitelaw’s appointment covers the biometrics portfolio, the surveillance camera role will remain vacant until a permanent successor is appointed.
Whitelaw has previously worked on several high-profile inquiries and inquests relating to information law and human rights. Her background, officials say, gives her “deep insight into the legal complexities” of biometric surveillance and national security frameworks.
The Home Office said it is currently conducting an open competition to recruit a permanent commissioner to take on the full duties of the post.
