Written question asked by Robert Key (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 July 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 July 2000. It was answered by Charles Clarke (Labour) on Monday, 24 July 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what alternatives (a) exist and (b) he has trialled to (i) the life signs monitoring system system and (ii) the AVID hand-held radar detection system; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Key: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what alternatives (a) exist and (b) he has trialled to (i) the life signs monitoring system and (ii) the AVID hand-held radar detection system; and if he will make a statement. [131764] Mr. Charles Clarke: The Police Scientific Development Branch (PSDB) has evaluated two alternative systems, AVIAN and MICROSEARCH for the detection of life signs in vehicles. PSDB has also conducted trials on the Mandec UK life signs monitoring system for use in calls. Some work has also been conducted on alternative methods of life signs monitoring in cells based on Closed Circuit Television and optical systems, audio systems or microwave radiation. PSDB has not trialled AVID or other hand held radar detection systems for detection of people or animals in freight.

Secondary information