Entry cameras 'breach data protection'

A COUNCIL was accused of putting its tenants' safety at risk yesterday after threatening to switch off intercom security cameras due to data protection laws.

The move by Birmingham City Council, described as “ridiculous” by a ward councillor, has angered residents in five tower blocks in the Druids Heath area of the city.

The council, which runs all five blocks, said its officers had received legal advice that the current security system breached the Data Protection Act.

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Many residents are opposing the plans to disconnect the cameras, which allow them to see callers before they decide whether to allow them in.

Councillor Mike Leddy said he was angry residents would no longer be able to see the CCTV images on their television screens, apparently because lawyers believe callers’ human rights would be breached if the pictures were recorded.

Mr Leddy, who represents the Brandwood ward, said: “It’s ridiculous that the council has decided they are going to pull the plug on it.

“It puts at risk the ‘feel-safe’ factor for a number of older residents in my ward – our residents should feel safe and secure in their homes and this is an aid to that.”

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The city’s cabinet member for housing, John Lines, told the Birmingham Mail his department was removing the cameras due to Government regulations.

“As head of the housing department, I would be liable for prosecution if this was allowed to continue,” he said.

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