In May Dyfed-Powys Police launched a survey to canvas public opinion on the Police use of ANPR, and it ran until June 9.

Its aim was to give our local communities, as well as those who travel through the region, a chance to voice their views and understanding of how ANPR is used.

The force was pleased with the response to the survey, and would like to say a big thank you to all those who completed it – over 800 in total.

The technology is used to help detect, deter and disrupt criminality at a local, force, regional and national level, including tackling travelling criminals, organised crime groups and terrorists.

It provides lines of enquiry and evidence in the investigation of crime and is used by forces throughout Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

But we wanted to get a broader view of public perceptions and understanding of our use of ANPR, which led to the launch of this survey.

Overall, the responses to the survey questions were very positive, with some of the headlines as follows: 77% were aware that Dyfed-Powys Police uses it to investigate crime; 85% were aware it’s used to capture motoring offences (insurance and tax); 81% were aware that it is used to target criminals using the road; 66% aware it’s used in Counter Terrorist operations, 57% were aware it’s used to prevent crime; and 54% were aware that it is used to keep communities safe.

In total, 67% strongly agreed that ANPR cameras/data should be used by the police; 74% strongly agreed that ANPR cameras/data should be used to deal with criminal behaviour; 53% strongly agreed that ANPR cameras/data should be used to promote safe roads.

The survey asked in what ways the public thought ANPR camera usage benefits their local community and the wider community – 85% believed it benefits the community by recording information that can be used in investigations; 77% believe it benefits them by recording evidence for use in court; 56% believe it prevents crime; and 45% believe it provides reassurance to communities.

But 43% strongly disagreed that ANPR cameras/data should be used by private companies, and 50% had concerns regarding the use of ANPR in respect of misuse of data. Although 40% also said they did not have any concerns in respect of the use of ANPR cameras and the data.

All the information gathered in the survey responses will now be used to inform our future use of ANPR, so once again thanks to those who took the time to complete it.

For further information on ANPR please visit our website www.dyfed-powys.police.uk