ACPO comment on the Science and Technology Committee report on the forensic science service

ACPO lead on forensic procurement Deputy Chief Constable Chris Eyre said:

“ACPO has been working with forces across the country drawing up contingency plans to support the service in meeting the Government’s transition plans for the Forensic Science Service.

“Our key aim is to ensure a sustainable operational capability for forensics and to ensure that the Criminal Justice System is not put at risk through uncoordinated activity either in individual forces or regions.

“There are plans to do in-sourcing of some forensic provisions and the driver for the police service in doing so is about being more efficient and effective in how we deal with and investigate crime. Through advancements in technology, like the use of drug testing kits in custody, forces are able to be far more efficient by undertaking drug testing there and then, rather than needing to delay the process by sending it to a laboratory.

“While the Forensic Science Service is not the only provider to the police service, the transition of the FSS will have significant implications for forces. ACPO, the National Policing Improvement Agency and the Home Office are taking steps to ensure continuity of forensic services to the police service and has plans in place to manage an orderly transition, continuity of forensic capabilities and minimal impact on forces.”

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk