Human rights organisation Liberty has sharply criticised the rollout, arguing it should be halted until proper legal protections are established.
Akiko Hart, Liberty’s director, said: “The introduction of fixed, live, facial recognition cameras on Oxford Street will mean thousands of Christmas shoppers will have their faces scanned by this unregulated surveillance technology without being given a choice.”
The Government opened a public consultation in December 2025 aimed at creating a legal framework governing police use of biometrics and facial recognition, but despite that process concluding in February, ministers have still not issued a response.
Mrs Hart added: “This lack of transparency damages public trust and, until clear laws, proper safeguards and independent oversight are in place, this significant rollout should be paused.”