Metropolitan Police to pilot face recognition technology at big events

Face recognition technology could soon be used at football matches in an attempt to catch suspected trouble makers.

The Metropolitan Police are to pilot the technology at major events.

The technology involves the use of overt cameras that scan the faces of people passing by, flagging up potential matches against a database of custody images.

That database would be filled with pictures of fans who may already be known to the police, having caused trouble in the past.

It is hoped the technology will help crack down on anti-social behaviour but its use is controversial, with opponents claiming the surveillance is intrusive.

Earlier this year, the Scottish Professional Football League announced it hoped to secure funding for the technology, but the Scottish government refused to invest it.

Some supporters had protested at football grounds against the move, unfurling banners declaring their opposition to the plans.