Law to ban ‘upskirting’ photos blocked by one lawmaker in U.K.

LONDON— A law that would make it a criminal offence in the U.K. to take “upskirting” photos was blocked Friday in Parliament despite receiving backing from the government.

The initiative was stopped by a single Conservative Party legislator who objected when the bill was put forward in the House of Commons. Some lawmakers who supported the measure shouted “shame” after Christopher Chope single-handedly thwarted the proposal simply by shouting “Object!”

Parliamentary rules make it hard for bills introduced by backbenchers to make progress. They can be halted by an objection from one lawmaker.

Upskirting involves taking a photo or video under someone’s clothing without their consent. It has become more common in recent years with the adoption of smartphones.

Although opponents used the procedural manoeuvre to prevent the vote Friday, the backing of the May government means it is considered likely to win approval when it is resubmitted in July.

British Justice Minister Lucy Frazer called the practice “a hideous invasion of privacy that leaves victims feeling degraded and distressed.”

She said making upskirting a specific offence would send a clear message that perpetrators will be punished.

The law would allow for prison sentences of up to two years in the most egregious cases.

Perpetrators have targeted girls as young as 10 in streets, nightclubs and restaurants. Over the past two years in Britain, 78 incidents were reported, but only 11 suspects were charged under the current laws on voyeurism and public indecency.