§ Mr. Cohenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, when the police return information seized 35W in relation to the Zircon project which is no longer needed for the purpose of their inquiries, they will ensure that all copies, extracts, summaries or abstracts of that information will be deleted from their files; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HurdAt the conclusion of their investigations the police in England and Wales ensure that the only copies, extracts, summaries or abstracts retained by them are the minimum required for submission to the prosecuting authorities and to provide a record of police action taken in the case. The latter record is necessary in order to safeguard the police, should they subsequently be called upon to justify their actions—for example, in the event of accusations of wrongful arrest or unlawful seizure of property. The position in Scotland is a matter for my right hon. and learned Friend the Lord Advocate.