Question

To ask The Senior Deputy Speaker what assessment has been made of the security, privacy and confidentiality implications of camera-, microphone- and AI-enabled smart glasses in areas of the Parliamentary Estate for which the House of Lords Administration is responsible; whether their use is currently permitted in the Chamber, division lobbies, committee rooms and other sensitive areas; and whether specific restrictions or guidance will be introduced.

Answered by Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede

New guidance on filming and photography in the House of Lords has recently been published and was communicated to Members this month. This guidance covers camera, microphone and AI-enabled smart glasses as well as other technologies. Recording is not permitted without appropriate authorisation.

In addition, a specific review of Parliament’s policy on the use of camera, microphone and AI-enabled smart glasses on the Parliamentary Estate is currently underway. The review is considering the implications of these emerging technologies and whether additional guidance is required. This work will bring together expertise from those responsible for filming and photography policy, physical and information security, privacy and data protection compliance and accessibility and reasonable-adjustment requirements, ensuring that any future approach appropriately balances security, privacy, operational needs and accessibility considerations. This review will engage with the Member governance bodies of both Houses as appropriate.