Biometrics Commissioner appointed

Alastair MacGregor QC has been appointed as the government’s first Biometrics Commissioner, Lord Taylor of Holbeach announced today (4th March 2013). Mr MacGregor, who is currently Deputy Chairman of the Criminal Cases Review Commission, will scrutinise police and other authorities’ use of DNA and fingerprint profiles and assess whether they are being used proportionately. He will ensure that the highest standards are upheld and will report his findings to Parliament annually.

Alastair MacGregor QC said: ‘I am very pleased to have been appointed Biometrics Commissioner.‘A key aspect of my role will be to provide independent oversight of the new regime established by the Protection of Freedoms Act to govern the state’s retention and use of DNA samples, DNA profiles and fingerprints.

‘That new regime seeks to strike a more appropriate balance between our rights and liberties as individuals and our shared interest in effective law enforcement and national security. My aim as the independent Commissioner will be to make it possible for the public to be confident that the new regime operates properly, proportionately and as Parliament intended.

‘I look forward to working closely with the many bodies and groups who share that aim.’

His appointment is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to giving police effective and accountable tools to target criminals and continue to drive down crime.

Alastair MacGregor was called to the English Bar in 1974 and became a QC in 1994. He will take up the Commissioner post from 4 March 2013.