Not again, surely! In December the architectural photographer, Grant Smith, was 'stopped' (two police cars, one police van, blue lights, hands restrained behind his back - basically he was treated like a suspected dangerous criminal) and searched while photographing Sir Christopher Wren's Christ Church in The City of London. This week he was stopped again while photographing the City skyline.
Numerous official bodies representing both professional and amateur photographers, plus unions, media groups and newspapers, have had extensive discussions with the Met Police during which earnest assurances have been given regarding respect for citizens rights, all to no avail. It seems that sections of the police (beat bobbies) will resort to mis-using section 44 of the terrorism act as a lazy alternative to intelligent policing (may it rest in peace).
The misuse of section 44 has been ruled illegal by the European Court of Human Rights yet this seems to have had no impact on those who are expected to uphold the law in the UK.
With a new government now in place promising to rein in the power of the state I think now is a good time to make representations to our (new?) MP's and local police forces to maintain a strong public profile for this important issue of civil liberties.
At stake is not only the ability to take a simple photo of something you might find pleasing, but at the other end of the scale is the fundamental freedom of the press to report what they deem needs reporting - this is the foundation of democracy. It must be defended. Get out your pen and paper - or laptop - today. Together we CAN make a difference.
About Me
- Peter Northall Photography
- Freelance Cameraman and Photographer. My Photos have appeared in most major news publications worldwide. My news footage has appeared on all major UK channels plus numerous international.