Libdems reveal the extent of schools collecting biometric information

6.29.55pm UTC (GMT +0000) Sat 9th Jun 2007

How will this information be used?

Liberal Democrat MPs have discovered that 3500 schools in England and Wales are collecting biometric information from around three quarters of a million children, and, in some cases this is without the consent of the children's parents.

An early day motion has been placed before parliament by Libdem MP, Greg Mulholland (with cross party support) expressing concern at the lack of security controls for this data and noting that the collection of the information without parental consent is contrary to the provisions of the Data Protection Act.

Leader of Tower Hamlets Liberal Democrats Cllr Stephanie Eaton expressed concern at the growing number of school collecting biometric data. She commented: "The use of biometric data needs to be approached with caution if it is not to be misused. We need reassurance that this technology is necessary, effective and safe. We have tabled a motion at full Council demanding a full and open consultation with parents, children and schools prior to any decision to introduce biometric data collection systems in Tower Hamlets schools."