Scotland’s first Biometrics Commissioner appointed
A former police chief superintendent has been confirmed as Scotland’s first Biometrics Commissioner.
Dr Brian Plastow, who was also lead inspector for Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS), will bring “significant leadership experience” to the role said the Scottish Parliament.
The role of Scottish Biometrics Commissioner was created last year by the Scottish Biometrics Commissioner Act 2020 and as the first commissioner, Plastow will establish the new office.
The newly-created post is intended to support and promote the adoption of “lawful, effective and ethical practices” in the use of biometric data in policing and the criminal justice system.
Dr Plastow retired from policing in 2013 following a 30-year career with Lothian and Borders Police, Fife Constabulary and Police Scotland.
He then became lead inspector with HMICS between 2013 and 2016, providing inspection, scrutiny, and assurance reports to the Scottish Parliament on various topics including roads policing, armed response policing, missing person investigations and the use of the facial search functionality within the UK Police National Database.
Dr Plastow has also worked collaboratively with other scrutiny bodies conducting UK inspections of reserved policy matters, such as counter-terrorism preparedness.
In 2017/18 he represented HMICS in assisting the work of the Independent Advisory Group (IAG) on Biometric Data in Scotland chaired by John Scott QC, solicitor advocate.
In 2019/20 he provided research and assistance to the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) multi-agency working group on digital forensics, and to the SPA Forensic Services Committee in outlining future options for biometric data and databases in Scotland.
Dr Plastow has also conducted independent research into policing, equalities and human rights and holds a PhD in Criminology from the University of Leicester.
In statement, the Scottish Parliament said: “Dr Plastow has significant knowledge of, and practical experience in, the use of biometric data and technologies for criminal justice and policing purposes.”
Dr Plastow was appointed following an open recruitment competition.
His appointment will be for a fixed term of eight years, with an annual salary of £70,000.