Press releases

"Today's court judgement is welcome and I hope that it will lead to a much fairer and transparent system for retaining DNA records, particularly where children and young people are involved.

"It is right for the police to use new technology to tackle crime but this must be balanced with ensuring children are safeguarded and their rights protected. A child's right to privacy is a key principle of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and its importance was noted by the judge in today's ruling.

"Earlier this year the UN called for the UK Government to introduce stronger regulations for data protection. I hope that the implementation of this judgement will result in the removal of innocent children from the police DNA database."