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DNA Database (Removal of Samples) Bill

To require the removal from the DNA Database of DNA samples taken from individuals who are not charged or are acquitted; and for connected purposes

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

16 October 2008

In Plain English

AI-generated

The DNA Database (Removal of Samples) Bill would require DNA samples taken from people who were not charged with a crime or who were acquitted to be removed from the DNA database. It aims to reduce the retention of personal DNA and protect individuals’ privacy, while allowing for related purposes as described in the bill. The proposal imposes duties on those who manage the database to carry out the deletions.

Key Points

Requires removal of DNA samples from the DNA database for individuals not charged or acquitted.
Applies to samples collected during investigations.
Includes provisions for connected purposes related to the bill.
Currently at Second Reading in the House of Commons (originating house).
Focuses on privacy and data-retention practices within the DNA database policy area.

Progress

The bill is at the Second Reading stage in the House of Commons; it would move on to Committee if supported, then further stages if it progresses.

Who is affected?

Individuals whose DNA samples are stored in the national DNA database and who were not charged with a crimeIndividuals who were charged but later acquittedFamilies and dependents of those individualsPolice, prosecutors, and DNA database administrators responsible for collection and deletionData protection and privacy organisationsThe general public as data subjects

Generated 21 February 2026

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.