Are smart glasses going too far? The PCC wants your views on crime and policing

Residents are being asked about the controversial subject of smart glasses in the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Crime and Policing Survey.

Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones is, once again, launching one of the most extensive public surveys conducted on policing seen anywhere in the UK.

The survey regularly attracts up to 4,000 responses and this year will be examining the much-debated issue of smart glasses which can record audio or video without people knowing.

The survey will ask people how aware they are of the issue and whether regulations and controls of such devices should be strengthened.

Aside from asking residents about their fear of crime, their experience of crime and what they feel are the priorities for their communities – as well as important questions on council tax and spending – the Crime and Policing Survey will also ask questions about the use of e-scooters.

It is the tenth year the survey has been commissioned by Mr Jones and in the past the results of the questionnaire have played a critical role in helping the PCC decide on priorities and voice the public’s view on how and where police resources should be deployed.

A dedicated roads policing team, specialist enforcement teams to drive down crime in rural areas, investment in raising awareness of frauds and scams, the launch of community speed watch schemes, an increase in community beat managers, additional resources in the control room – all have been launched thanks to the views expressed in previous surveys.

The widespread adoption of smart glasses has ignited a global backlash, with critics dubbing them “pervert glasses” due to users secretly filming, says the PCC.

The controversy has led to widespread UK bans across HM Courts & Tribunals Service buildings, all 800 plus JD Wetherspoon pubs, as well as theatres and restaurants.

Norway launched a nationwide public ban in October 2026, completely halting retail distribution and prohibiting the use of camera-enabled glasses in public gatherings, parks, schools, and healthcare facilities while in Australia, Canada and South Korea strict regulations have been introduced on where they can be worn, according to the PCC. To complete the Crime and Policing Survey go to: https://habit5research.questionpro.eu/Lincs-Crime-and-Policing-Survey-2026?custom2=Pressrelease