The evolution, devolution and distribution of UK Biometric Imaginaries

Area of Science:

• Public Policy
• Science and Technology Studies
• Law and Governance

Background:

• The UK Home Office's 2018 Biometric Strategy outlines key oversight bodies for biometric data in law enforcement.
• Biometric policymaking is influenced by 'biometric imaginaries' promoted by national and devolved administrations.
• Existing studies often assume national governments project cohesive visions, overlooking complexities in policy implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine UK biometric policymaking by analyzing the roles and influence of oversight actors.
• To challenge the assumption of cohesive national sociotechnical imaginaries in biometric policy.
• To explore how embedded actors contest and shape biometric imaginaries through their actions and perspectives.

Main Methods:

• Mapping of oversight bodies involved in UK biometric data governance.
• Comparative analysis of UK Home Office and Scottish administration biometric strategies.
• Qualitative examination of how embedded actors (commissioners, regulators, advisors) engage with and challenge biometric imaginaries.

Main Results:

• Oversight actors are embedded within, and actively shape, biometric imaginaries.
• UK biometric policy is characterized by a 'patchwork' of influences, not a single dominant vision.
• Embedded actors utilize interpretive flexibility and standpoint to challenge government imaginaries, acting as critical conduits.
• Scotland exhibits a diverging approach to biometric governance, challenging national cohesion assumptions.

Conclusions:

• Biometric policymaking is more fragmented than assumed, with embedded actors playing a crucial role in critiquing and reshaping policy visions.
• The concept of the 'biometric imaginary' needs further characterization to account for diverse interpretations and challenges.
• Understanding the interplay between national imaginaries and localized critiques is essential for effective biometric governance.