§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what action he is taking to ensure the investigation into the forensic evidence in the case of Hilda Murrell is being carried out with the devotion of reasonable resources. [152632]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeI am satisfied that the Forensic Science Service (FSS) is dedicating the appropriate resources to investigating the forensic evidence in the case of Hilda Murrell. The results obtained so far have provided no information about DNA from anyone other than the victim. The FSS is undertaking staged examinations of samples using the latest DNA techniques. As each of these examinations is completed, the next step in the priority order of tests is triggered. The analysis is being applied in order of priority so as to conserve as far as possible samples for future analysis if existing DNA tests are unsuccessful. Once the results of the tests have been assessed, the FSS will consider what further analysis could usefully be undertaken.