In the news

Concerns about the UK police force’s national DNA database have been raised by GeneWatch UK, who have called on ministers to ensure that the privacy of individuals who have provided DNA for the database (see BBC news report). GeneWatch, which describes itself as a “not-for-profit group that monitors developments in genetic technologies from a public interest” called for the destruction of samples on the conclusion of an investigation, saying that the database created a permanent list of ‘suspects’ including anyone arrested for a recordable offence, even if they were never charged. They also called for the creation of an independent body to oversee the database. A Home Office spokeswoman said that careful consideration would be given to GeneWatch's report but legal scrutiny had already been given to rules permitting the retention of DNA samples from people who had been arrested but not convicted, adding that "The national DNA database has proved to be an extremely effective tool in the fight against crime."