Orwellian DNA proposal should be rejected

1.00.00pm GMT Sun 16th Mar 2008

Commenting on the proposal from Gary Pugh, the DNA spokesman for the Association of Chief Police Officers, that primary school children should have their DNA stored on the basis of profiling for future criminal activity, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne said:

"This is the sort of Orwellian idea that should stay firmly in science fiction novels.

"Innocent people should not have their DNA stored, and that applies in spades to children who could be stigmatised by having their DNA taken.

"Britain already has the largest DNA database in the democratic world and it is growing like topsy without proper political sanction.

"The only DNA samples that should be retained are of people who have been convicted or where DNA is found at the scene of a crime where there is a on-going investigation."

ENDS