HL Deb 19 April 1990 vol 518 cc224-5WA
Lord Macaulay of Bragar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many laboratories are available in the United Kingdom to defence counsel in criminal cases to check the validity of evidence on DNA fingerprinting used by the prosecution.

The Minister of State, Home Office (Earl Ferrers)

There are at least three independent laboratories in the United Kingdom prepared to undertake DNA profiling for the defence in criminal cases. The forensic science service also conducts DNA tests for the defence, but is not normally prepared to do so in cases where DNA tests have already been undertaken in one of its laboratories at the prosecution's request. Defence experts are, however, always welcome to visit the laboratories of the forensic science service to discuss the results of DNA profiles.

Lord Macaulay of Bragar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether in the light of a case in the United States, where DNA evidence was not admitted in evidence (New Law Journal, 16th February 1990), they have any plans to examine in detail the laboratory and scientific procedures presently followed in the United Kingdom and to formulate statutory regulations to govern DNA testing in the United Kingdom.

Earl Ferrers

All scientific techniques employed by the forensic science service, including DNA profiling, are rigorously tested before introduction and are subject to regular quality assurance procedures while in use. For these reasons, my right honourable friend the Home Secretary sees no need to regulate DNA testing by statute.