HC Deb 13 April 1989 vol 150 cc704-5W
16. Mr. David Evans

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what improvements have been achieved in the efficiency of the police fingerprint service since the publication of the Audit Commission report on the subject in October 1988.

38. Mr. Irvine

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to improve the efficiency of the police fingerprinting service.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

In February 1988, the Home Office and the Association of Chief Police Officers set up a group of police officers, forensic scientists and fingerprint experts to undertake a general review of the work of the scientific support services in police forces, including fingerprint services.

The group has made a number of recommendations on the reorganisation of fingerprint departments and improved training for fingerprint experts. These recommendations, which take into account the findings of the Audit Commission, are currently being considered by the Association of Chief Police Officers.