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Forensic Science Regulator and Biometrics Strategy Bill - Sitting 1

11 November 2020

Proposing MP
Angela Eagle Lab
Wallasey
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

Angela Eagle is addressing the Public Bill Committee on the Forensic Science Regulator and Biometrics Strategy Bill, discussing amendments related to information disclosure requirements, appeals to the First-tier Tribunal, assistance provided by the regulator, and modifications to the bill's title. The statement discusses the Forensic Science Regulator and Biometrics Strategy Bill, highlighting the importance of statutory powers for the regulator to ensure high-quality forensic science standards in the criminal justice system. The statement discusses the Forensic Science Regulator and Biometrics Strategy Bill, which aims to put the regulator on a statutory footing with enforcement powers. The statement discusses amendments to a bill aimed at providing statutory powers to the Forensic Science Regulator to ensure high-quality forensic analysis in criminal proceedings. The statement discusses amendments to the Forensic Science Regulator and Biometrics Strategy Bill concerning various aspects of regulatory oversight, appeals processes, and disclosure requirements.

Action Requested

The MP proposes several amendments to clauses in the bill, including enabling appeals against variations of compliance notices, allowing the Forensic Science Regulator to provide assistance, and removing references to biometrics strategies from the bill's title. These changes aim to clarify and strengthen the regulatory framework for forensic science activities.

Key Facts

  • Amendments proposed include modifying clause 5 regarding information disclosure.
  • Amendment 3 enables appeals against decisions by the Forensic Science Regulator.
  • Government amendment 10 modifies the short title of the Bill to remove references to biometrics strategies.
  • Dr Gillian Tully, outgoing Forensic Science Regulator, received a CBE for her work.
  • The market for forensic services in Britain has shortfalls in capacity, skills and funding.
  • An amendment will change the title of the Bill to remove reference to a biometrics strategy.
  • Forensic science has advanced significantly over the past 40 years.
  • Compliance with ISO standards in digital forensics is less than 30%.
  • Dr Gillian Tully stated that enforcement powers are needed to achieve full compliance.
  • The Bill establishes a code of practice and grants enforcement powers to the regulator.
  • Amendments 1 to 11 are proposed to fine-tune the legislation.
  • Amendment 9 ensures that the duties and powers of other regulators overseeing forensic activities are not affected.
  • The Government aims to create a framework for law enforcement's adoption of new technology before the next election.
  • Amendment made to Clause 5 to allow disclosure of information without breaching obligations.
  • Amendments enable appeals against variations of compliance notices by the First-tier Tribunal.
  • Amendment in Clause 9 enables the Regulator to provide assistance related to forensic science activities.
  • The short title and long title of the Bill are modified to remove references to biometrics strategies.
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