Our ref: FOI- 2644-1617

Thank you for your email received by us on 27 March 2017 asking for information about voice recordings on buses.

We have considered your request in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our Information Access Policy. I can confirm we do hold some of the information you require. You asked:

I would like to know if voice recordings can be used on London buses.

The current bus specification for London which came into effect in 2012 requires new vehicles to be capable of recording sound. This is different to them being activated and actually recording.

I would also like to know if there are agreements between TfL and Stagecoach London on this matter and if I would like a copy of them.

There are no agreements between TfL and its bus operators on this matter, only the contract capability requirement mentioned above.

I would also like to know if all buses with voice recordings should display signs informing passengers of this.

As far as we are aware, there are no buses in the fleet where audio is currently being actively recorded. However, were systems to be activated to record audio, CCTV signs would need to be updated to reflect this change.

If this is not the information you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely,

Melissa Nichols

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London