Committee looks at DNA database and at crime prevention

• Video and Audio: Home Affairs Committee evidence sessions
• Home Affairs Committee

10.30am - The National DNA Database

This is the third evidence session of the Committee’s inquiry into the National DNA Database. The witness is the man who discovered genetic fingerprinting, Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys, University of Leicester.

Rt Hon Keith Vaz MP, Chairman said:

"The DNA pioneer Sir Alec Jeffreys has been outspoken on his views on the DNA Database and the retention of DNA of innocent people. Given his obvious expertise in the area the Committee are keen to learn how he envisages DNA should be used to solve crime and what are the reasons behind his strong opinions on the Government’s proposals."

10.50am - The Government's Approach to Crime Prevention

In the second session the Committee hears evidence for its inquiry examining the Government’s approach to crime prevention.

10.50am

• David Hanson MP
• Stephen Rimmer, Director-General, Crime and Policing Group, Home Office

11.40 am

• Chris Grayling MP

Rt Hon Keith Vaz MP, Chairman of the Committee, said:

"We look forward to challenging the Minister on progress the Government has made to meet its pledge to be tough on crime, tough on the causes of crime. We are also keen to hear from the Opposition on what they are proposing."

The Committee's inquiry is examining the Government’s approach to crime prevention using as a framework its strategy Cutting Crime: a new partnership 2008-11 . In particular the inquiry will focus on;

• measures to prevent youth criminality
• measures to design out crime
• measures to reduce re-offending
• measures to maximise partnership working at a local and national level
• the role of the different public sector partners in crime prevention
• the role of the third sector in crime prevention
• the role of business in crime prevention