It’s complete rubbish.
The Government have not indicated any such plan whatsoever.
It’s got something to do with a private club and their members only – and clearly they don’t have the power to affect the general public.
I have been been inundated with requests for details regarding the petition I have started at the Number 10 e-petition site. Linked here – http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Photography/. I have NOT said that a bill is in preparation, or that legislation is being prepared, but am referring to the ID cards proposed by various bodies which will serve to create an ‘uber class’ of photographer, and restrict the use of cameras by normal citizens. These cards will only further the suspicion and misunderstandings that many photographers already suffer.
The above quote is direct from the petitioners website. He would be better petitioning the clubs concerned.
He says “bodies”, but they’re not public bodies, merely some private institutions without any public remit whatsover.
You might need a magnifying glass to read some of the small print (I can’t be bothered myself), even at 640×480 on a 21″ screen.
I chuckled at the suggestion that everyone with a camera should carry this as a laminated card: –
You are reminded that under UK law, there are no restrictions on taking photographs in a public place or on photography of individuals, whether they are adults or minors. There is no right to privacy in a public place, although photographers are of course subject to the usual libel laws in the same way as any other citizen and should observe them. Equipment or film may not be confiscated, or images deleted by any person or officer unless a warrant for such action is issued. Any attempt without a warrant is considered assault under UK law.
But, of course, it’s entirely accurate.
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