Speed camera operators in Bath, UK have turned down requests for operational information on individual cameras, saying that the information could be used to cheat the system.

Britain's freedom of information act became effective this year and in less than a month has already offered an overview of the UK program that generates $212 million (US) annually. But information about the operational history of particular cameras allows independent evaluation of claims that "violations are down." If a camera isn't loaded with film, for example, there are no violations.

Requests for this information were rejected because such information could "interfere with the lawful actions of the safety camera partnership."

Sgt Nick Blencowe, of the Wiltshire and Swindon Road Safety Partnership, said information on the performance of specific cameras or the number of offences on specific roads could be misused by groups and individuals who wanted to illegally speed.