First Minister Carwyn Jones
The head of the Welsh Government made the comments following questions raised by AM, Russell George, as a regional review of CCTV services investigates whether the technology is being funded and utilised properly.
Mr George took the opportunity during weekly questions to the First Minister, Carwyn Jones AM, to emphasise the fact that a review of street Close-Circuit Television services was being led by the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner, Christopher Salmon, as some councils in the region were questioning their cost and efficacy in reducing crime.
The Montgomeryshire AM asked if Mr Jones agreed that street CCTV technology did bring real benefits to local communities, not only as a key asset to crime prevention but also as a valuable tool to prosecute people who do commit crimes.
Mr Jones agreed with Mr George and said that when he was a practicing lawyer in Swansea, their introduction in the city centre brought a marked reduction in incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour.
Commenting, Mr George said:
“The Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Commissioner has announced that he will be conducting a thorough review of street Close-Circuit Television services across the region and I certainly welcome that.
“CCTV services, originally installed to cut crime, are coming under ever closer scrutiny by local authorities who are struggling with budgetary pressures and they need to justify their cost; I completely understand why they need to do that.
“It is important to know whether public money is being invested properly to maximise desired outcomes but also whether technology is being utilised properly to co-ordinate the best outcomes.
“However, I believe that there is real benefit in having street CCTV, not only as a key asset to crime prevention, but also as a valuable tool to prosecute people who do commit crimes and I’m pleased to hear that the First Minister agrees with me.
“I also think most local communities would concur with my assessment and where they exist, would want them maintained.”
Mr Salmon said that the review was necessary because there had to be a proper assessment that public money was being spent properly and whether there was an appropriate balance between ‘safety, privacy and cost’. He added:
“The police have never funded CCTV in Dyfed-Powys and any decision to cut funding is the responsibility of the local council.
“Nevertheless, I’m determined to ensure that our communities are kept safe. I’ve offered to contribute to CCTV provision with all local authorities.
“I wish to simplify CCTV’s use, ensure it’s beneficial to communities and offer the public a clear understanding of its effectiveness.
“First, however, we must make sure we’re spending money wisely, so I’ve proposed a review, which my office will lead, to assess the appropriate future provision that balances safety, privacy and cost.”
