World’s Largest Biometric Database Given Go-ahead

By Mick Meaney
RINF Alternative News 

The European Parliament has backed proposals to set up a European Visa Information System (VIS) and create the world’s largest biometric database, holding 70 million sets of fingerprints.

The database will also allow police across the European Union to pool and share DNA records.

The new system advances the ‘Big Brother’ threat to civil privacy and the Conservatives have condemned the reports as an invasion of privacy rights and called for Britain to opt out.

“The implications… are far-reaching and will affect all EU citizens. To give just one example, the provisions of this Treaty could mean that data be shared and exchanged on all EU citizens regardless of whether they are suspected or convicted of a crime.” Said Philip Bradbourn MEP, Conservative Justice and Home Affairs Spokesman. “Overall this…is a classic example of where a few member states are trying to impose their system on all member states. The eight countries signed up to the Prum Treaty are now trying to foist it upon the rest.”

European Data Protection Supervisor Peter Hustinx expressed his own concern: “The circle of data subjects that can be included in this system is not limited to data of persons suspected or convicted of specific crimes.”

Liberal Democrat Justice Spokesperson, Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP backed the measures but stated “the potential consequences of misuse or abuse would deeply undermine civil liberties.”

However Labour MEP Michael Cashman said “I welcome the adoption of this report after long and complex negotiations. I believe the final agreement represents a balanced and constructive approach. It will enable our member states to record and exchange information regarding visa applications in a more coherent way whilst at the same time ensuring applicants’ rights are protected. On biometrics, it is essential for the EU to take a coherent position on this issue. Technologies such as biometrics can and will improve our security without infringing on our civil liberties if properly and appropriately used. We must embrace this technology rather than shy away from it.”

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