Bikers blow cover of CCTV cars snooping on drivers

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Teams of bikers have launched their own counter-surveillance operation in which they follow the CCTV cars before standing next to them with large signs saying "Beware hidden camera" to warn motorists.

The camera-equipped Smart cars are used to enforce parking charges but campaigners claim they are "spying" on law-abiding motorists and are being used by Westminster council as an extra source of revenue.

The new tactic, which also includes following traffic wardens before warning drivers they could be fined, is the latest in an ongoing protest over a £1-a-day parking charge for bikes in central London. Charlie Lort-Phillips, of pressure group No To The Bike Parking Tax, said: "The idea is to give Westminster a taste of their own medicine.

"When the CCTV Smart car stops we stand next to it with a sign saying Beware hidden camera'."

Four bikers at a time follow each of the marked cars, which are operated by parking firm NSL.
Campaigners hope it will stop council "snooping" on motorists and want to roll out the tactics across London.

Steve Baker said: "We hope this spreads across London because the public have for too long been cash cows for councils. The reaction we've had from other drivers and even pedestrians has been very positive with lots of people giving us the thumbs-up."

Despite police being called to move the campaigners on, lawyers believe the bikers are acting legally. It means that Westminster council risks losing thousands of pounds in ticket revenue.

Alex Deane, Director of Big Brother Watch, said: "It is great to see those who snoop on our driving get a taste of their own medicine."

Westminster defended its vans, saying they "focus on areas where traffic congestion is particularly heavy".

Cllr Lee Rowley, Westminster council's cabinet member for parking, said: "Given the current tough economic climate we welcome all volunteers who want to do their bit in the community, but our CCTV cars are already clearly marked to make them visible to the public so I'm not sure that this is the best use of the motorcyclists' time.

"We'd be more than happy to put them in contact with one of the many hundreds of good causes in Westminster that would welcome volunteers and additional support."