I am writing to request an internal review of Transport for London's handling of my FOI request 'Audio recording on London Buses'. I was made aware that new buses including the new RM's have audio recording. I am led to believe that after recent update to iBus device digitlising the network, audio and visual can now be seen via service control rooms and centrecomm from of the bus cab. Can you please let us know which operators are using audio recording of bus cabs it and if bus operators had consulted the trade union? I am not referring to audio recordings when making calls.

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TfL Ref: 1620-1819

Thank you for your email received on 9 September 2018 asking for information about audio recordings being used on buses.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require. You asked: Can you please let us know which operators are using audio recording of bus cabs it and if bus operators had consulted the trade union?

The current audio and visual CCTV systems on buses operate as a discrete system, ie they are not connected with or to control rooms for live sharing.

Operators fit them to their buses in accordance with the relevant data protection and privacy requirements, which includes signs advising the public of their presence, and the operator of the system. All operators have strict processes and systems that protect data, whilst supporting a safe and secure bus network.

Audio recording around the drivers cab is an operator-led initiative and they can voluntarily have these systems on vehicles if they wish. From ordering records we know that Uno and Stagecoach have separately ordered audio stickers to reflect the installation of audio recording on their buses so as far as we are aware they are using the system. As the operators lease or procure vehicles and employ bus drivers, not TfL, any engagement activities with staff representatives would be undertaken by them and you would need to contact them for this information as we do not hold this.

If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.

Yours sincerely

Sara Thomas

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

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