Request ID: FOI-3307-2324 Date published: 16 February 2024
You asked
To whom it concerns,
I am writing to make a freedom of information request. I would like to request:
- The advice that TfL received for hiring Close Protection Operatives to act as security for the ULEZ Vans
- The cost analysis of hiring close protection against security guard and/ or public space surveillance
- What date TfL first engaged security at the ULEZ Vans
- The daily cost of security for ULEZ vans
I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
We answered
Our Ref: FOI-3307-2324
Thank you for your request received on 14 December 2023 asking for information about our Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) enforcement vans.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations (EIR) and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold some of the information you require. You asked for:
• The advice that TfL received for hiring Close Protection Operatives to act as security for the ULEZ Vans
TfL has deployed mobile units as part of our extensive camera network to support the effective operation of the ULEZ scheme. Following deployment and subsequent vandalism of the mobile camera assets, verbal discussions were undertaken as to what security options would best mitigate this risk. The deployment of close protection security staff was the chosen option primarily because their training and skill set were considered best suited to protecting our contractors and assets.
• What date TfL first engaged security at the ULEZ Vans
Security services were first deployed on 12 September 2023.
• The cost analysis of hiring close protection against security guard and/ or public space surveillance • The daily cost of security for ULEZ vans
In accordance with the EIR, we are not obliged to supply any of the information as it is subject to a statutory exception to the right of access to information under regulations R12(5)(a) – international relations, defence, national security & public safety (in this instance specifically public safety), regulation 12(5)(b) – the course of justice, the ability of a person to receive a fair trial or the ability of the public authority to conduct and inquiry of a criminal or disciplinary nature – (in this instance specifically the course of justice), and regulation 12(5)(e) – confidentially of commercial or industrial information where such confidentiality is provide by law to protect a legitimate economic interest.
The rationale for this is explained in more detail in a published response to a previous information request which is available on our website here:
https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-0970-2324 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.
Yours sincerely
Gemma Jacob Senior FOI Case Officer FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
