Liberal Democrats Urge Westminster Smart-Glasses Ban After 5-Minute Senedd Speech
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Oct 14
Liberal Democrats Urge Westminster Smart-Glasses Ban After 5-Minute Senedd Speech
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Oct 14
Summary
Anna Sabine wrote to Speaker Lindsay Hoyle on Wednesday urging a ban on smart glasses across the parliamentary estate, warning AI-enabled eyewear could quietly shape speeches and breach privacy rules.
The push followed suspicion that Reform UK Senedd member Jason O’Connell used teleprompter-style smart glasses during a 5-minute chamber speech delivered without looking at notes, with flashing lenses drawing attention.
Sabine said the devices could discreetly record video or photos, and that indicator lights can be covered or disabled, making enforcement difficult during meetings involving private constituent cases and sensitive documents.
UK parliament said it is already reviewing policy on camera-equipped smart glasses and other wearables, with Lords officials weighing security, privacy, filming rules, data protection and accessibility before deciding on new guidance.