Whilst out early this evening I observed a film crew filming from the pavement an interview between a family of three living in a pretty cottage home overlooking the iconic St. John's Church in Downshire Hill.
Turns out it was Cllr Leila Roy from Belsize Park on the doors of Hampstead Town.
After the interview was over I called on the house to find out what was going on and was told that the family would be making an official complaint for secretly being filmed without permission or consent. I was shocked and appalled, especially knowing that Cllr Leila Roy works as a freelance television researcher, I believe for the BBC.
Apparently, the Mother who was called to the door was filmed without any warning that a film crew was filming her being canvassed. When challenged by the daughter the Tories explained it was for an Asian TV channel.
The question is what was a Belsize Cllr doing filming residents without prior consent in Hampstead Town anyway. Clearly it was a Conservative CCHQ lead operation. They did appear to be a party intern in the film team.
As a professional filmmaker myself I know how vital it is to always get the required permissions and consent for any kind of filming of people. Clearly this secret filming had been going on prior to them being busted by the vigilant Daughter.
I have asked prior permission from the family member to write this blog entry about the incident, she agreed so long as I do not mention the precise address or their name. This I have agreed to do.
I have asked prior permission from the family member to write this blog entry about the incident, she agreed so long as I do not mention the precise address or their name. This I have agreed to do.
I will be keeping a watch out for any more underhand tricks of this kind
