§ 33. Mr. ROBINSONasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the scientific investigations made by foreign police experts into the analysis of dust as a factor in crime detection; in particular, whether he is aware of the work of Dr. Edmond Locard, of Lyon; and whether the Metropolitan Police have adopted or investigated the methods advocated, and with what results, in any recent crimes?
§ Sir H. SAMUELYes, Sir. The Commissioner has continual and careful watch kept upon all developments in the scientific side of criminal investigation, and has had his attention called to the work of Dr. Locard and many others. The Metropolitan Police employ the best expert in the particular subject whenever it appears that scientific assistance is likely to be helpful. Careful scientific examination of dust is made wherever necessary, and although such cases are rare, the beat technical assistance has been obtained whenever there has been ground for supposing that it was likely to be of value.
§ Mr. ROBINSONDo I understand that the Metropolitan Police have been making tests with a device constructed to the designs of Dr. SÕderman and Dr. Heuberger as recommended in Dr. Locard's book?
§ Sir H. SAMUELI cannot go into the technical aspects of this matter, but in each particular case the Commissioner of Police employs the best expert advice.