They only last month the SNP were claiming that we had a compassionate, human justice system. Yet now they are looking to close a 'loophole' in the capture of DNA of offenders.
Up until now only the DNA of those convicted of a crime could be taken and kept on the Government data base. However, if the person chose to take a direct measure, such as a fine, as an alternative to being prosecuted in court then their DNA could not be kept. The SNP are saying this is a loophole that must be closed. One does have to ask does this include points for speeding, parking fines or fines for dropping litter?
SNP West of Scotland MSP Stewart Maxwell has brought an amendment to the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Bill to try and bring this about. He claims that DNA retained by such measures does not infringe anyone's human rights. Of course direct measures can also be used in cases of in vandalism, breach of the peace, theft, assault and other alleged offences as well as those listed above.
The Association of Chief Police Officers and Scottish Police Services Authority have called for forensic data taken from those who accept a police fixed-penalty notice to be retained. Something that does not seem to be taken into account in Mr Maxwell's amendment which calls for such gathered information to be retained indefinitely.
So, if this was applicable to England, Patricia Scotland's DNA would be on the database?
ReplyDeleteNot too happy with this Stephen, we need more detail as you suggest.