data protection act - "videographic evidence"

[JohnL]

As discussed a while ago, I tried writing to the Fife Constabulary to get a copy of the video they took of me speeding under the D.P. Act. Here's their reply:
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Dear Mr L

Data Protection Act - Request for Information

I refer to you letter of 31 March 2004 regarding the above relative to video evidence of an alleged speeding offence. May I firstly apologise for the delay in responding to you but your refernce to CCTV resulted in the letter being misdirected and subsequently sent for my personal attention at a time I was on leave.

Speed and other enforcement cameras are not the same as public space CCTV and are not subject to the same Code of Practice under Data Protection legislation. As such I am currently unable to accede to your request for a copy of our video footage.

I note fromour records we have already issued you with a Conditional Offer of Fixed Penalty in this case as part of the legal process for dealing with such offences. Notwithstanding the abo ve I would be happy for you to view the video footage relative to the specific alleged offence without charge. To avail yourself of this opportunity please contact any of our staff at the Camera Enforcement Unit at the above address or telephon eunumber to make an appointment to view, quoting the case reference number shown above.

In view of the above I am returning your cheque for £10 (ten pounds) made out in favour of Fife Constabulary.

Yours sincerely

"squiggle"

Project Manager
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Anyone got any comments?

[Dwight VanDriver]

Considering at the Conditional Offer stage there is no obligation to let you view the video then I would suggest the reply is more than fair ?

DVD

[Davel]

I'd have thought that he'd have asked for the other £50 at the same time, along with your licence, so that you can be awarded the customary 3 points too!

Or that you can dispute it, pay more and get more points.

Great options....

[voyds9]

So basically they will not release under DPA, but if you watch TV long enough you will see yourself in Streetcrime UK.

[JohnL]

I'm not saying they're unfair! I'm just interested. I promised I'd post up the response I got when it came up for discussion here a couple of months ago.

In fact I've already sent another cheque for £60 for this one, along with the licence - I've got another NIP to deal with which I intend to contest as I think I actually do have a leg to stand on, but I think that trying to mess around with two at once is asking for trouble.

Something that struck me is that they say "speed and other enforcement cameras ..." rather than poncing about hiding behind "safety" excuses. So credit there. Even if they did book me for 83 in a 70 on a clear and quiet saturday ... moan, moan, moan.