Biennial report 2009 to 2011: National DNA Database
This is the biennial (two yearly) report of the National DNA Database (NDNAD) for the years 2009 to 2011.
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The level of interest in DNA profiling, the need to ensure an understanding and confidence in DNA profiling and the operation of the NDNAD continue to be matters of significant public interest. In this report we have produced much of the same information and statistics as in previous reports so that readers can monitor what has changed and identify trends in how the NDNAD has continued to contribute to crime investigation in the UK.
The period 2009 to 2011 was unprecedented in the number of reviews and scrutiny of the National DNA Database (NDNAD) - notably by the Human Genetics Commission, Liberty, Genewatch, the Nuffield Foundation, the Runnymede Trust and of course the NDNAD Ethics Group, established to advise the Strategy Board and Ministers on ethical issues.
There was also significant public and Parliamentary debate on the NDNAD with 2 Westminster Hall debates, led by Diane Abbott MP and Philip Davies MP and the report by the Home Affairs Select Committee, published in March 2010, as the Crime and Security Bill was being considered by Parliament. We have produced a report covering 2 years recognising the change in government following the general election and the Protection of Freedoms Bill put forward by the coalition government to address the ECHR Judgement in the case of S and Marper in line with their commitments.
Most importantly however, we have also included more explanatory information about DNA profiling and the operation and safeguards that apply to the NDNAD and contextual information on the impact of the NDNAD.
For the full report please see the attached PDF document.