Written question asked by David Stewart (Labour) on Monday, 1 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 July 2002. It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 July 2002 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, when he will bring forward legislation which would make the obtaining of DNA samples without consent an offence. - Including ref to The Human Genetics Commission's Report, Inside Information - balancing interests in the use of personal genetic data. (Holding answer 4 July 2002).

Answer: Mr. David Stewart: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will bring forward legislation which would make the obtaining of DNA samples without consent an offence. [66872] Mr. Hilary Benn: [holding answer 4 July 2002]: The Human Genetics Commission's Report, "Inside Information--balancing interests in the use of personal genetic data" has recommended the creation of a new criminal offence of the non-consensual or deceitful obtaining or analysis of genetic information for non-medical purposes. We are currently considering this proposal and will respond to the Human Genetics Commission's report in due course.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 66872; 389 c1519W;389 c1517W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Disclosure of information Databases Human rights Genetics Identification of criminals Personal records Police Regulation Human Genetics Commission
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk