NEW TEMPLATE POLICY Q&A: Welsh Government pushes for more consistent CCTV use in taxis
The Welsh Government is moving towards a standardised approach to CCTV use in taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs). Working with industry specialists, including ACSS, officials have developed a policy template aimed at creating uniformity across Wales.
At present, CCTV installation in licensed vehicles is voluntary. Local councils can enforce it through licensing conditions, but regulations differ between regions. The new template provides a structured framework that authorities can adopt or modify to suit local requirements.
TaxiPoint’s Editor, Perry Richardson, spoke with Liam Taylor, Business Development Manager at ACSS, to discuss the significance of this policy, how it aligns with existing regulations, and whether a similar approach should be considered across the UK.
Why is this new policy template important for the industry in Wales?
“The policy template provides a standardised approach to CCTV use in taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) across Wales, helping to create consistency where there has previously been variation between local authorities. By aligning with ICO regulations and national safety standards, it ensures CCTV systems enhance passenger and driver security while maintaining data protection compliance. This policy also sets a precedent for other UK governing bodies which identifies a way of standardising compliance without having to overcomplicate the process.”
What are the key topics covered within the template?
“The policy covers several critical areas, including:
Signage – Clear rules on where and how CCTV notices must be displayed.
Audio Recording – Guidance on when audio can be captured and the need for transparency.
Data Retention & Privacy – Compliance with ICO regulations, including mandatory Data Privacy Impact Assessments (DPIA) for councils making CCTV a requirement.
System Standards – Technical specifications to ensure CCTV systems meet safety and operational needs.
Implementation Guidelines – A framework for councils to adapt to their local needs while maintaining consistency across Wales.”
Does the policy focus on mandatory or voluntary CCTV requirements?
“The policy keeps CCTV voluntary for vehicle proprietors but gives local authorities the option to make it mandatory through licensing conditions. If councils choose to do so, they must complete a DPIA to justify the decision and address privacy concerns.”
What has the response been like from licensing authorities since the template has been released?
“The response has been positive, particularly from councils looking for clearer guidance on how to regulate CCTV use. The template simplifies decision-making, helping authorities balance safety, compliance, and privacy without needing to create policies from scratch.”
Are there such templates available outside of Wales for the rest of the UK to use? If yes, how do they compare? If not, should this be something that the devolved Governments should be considering?
“Currently, there is no single national CCTV policy template for taxis and PHVs in the rest of the UK, leading to inconsistencies in regulations between local authorities. The Welsh template offers a structured, legally compliant framework that could benefit other UK regions. Devolved governments should consider adopting a similar approach to improve clarity, fairness, and safety in the industry.”
