The government has named academic expert Professor William Webster as the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner
The Home Office has appointed Professor William Webster as the new Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner following an open public competition. Professor Webster formally took up the two-year post on November 1, 2025.
The statutory role is critical to balancing security needs with civil liberties, holding two main functions:
Overseeing the retention, use, and destruction of DNA samples, DNA profiles, and fingerprints by police forces across England and Wales.
Promoting compliance with the Home Secretary’s Surveillance Camera Code of Practice.
Professor Webster is currently Professor of Public Policy and Management at the University of Stirling and serves as Director of the Centre for Research into Information Surveillance and Privacy (CRISP). He brings over 25 years of experience in researching surveillance governance to the role, having played a significant part in shaping national policy in this area.
Focus on AI & Safeguarding Rights
Professor Webster takes on the commissionership at a time of rapid technological advancement in policing, particularly concerning biometrics and artificial intelligence.
Responding to his appointment, he acknowledged the increasing importance of the office: “Developments in new technology, around for example biometrics and artificial intelligence, mean that this office will play an increasingly important role in safeguarding the rights of citizens whilst contributing to keeping the UK safe and secure.”
He confirmed his focus will be on overseeing police applications for retaining biometric material and ensuring adherence to the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice.
Policing and Crime Minister, Sarah Jones, welcomed the appointment, stating: “He brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the field. I look forward to working with him to ensure our use of biometrics and surveillance continues to uphold public trust, safeguard privacy, and support effective policing.”
The role had been vacant since August 2024, with Francesca Whitelaw KC serving as Interim Biometrics Commissioner since July 1, 2025.
