Statement from the interim Biometrics Commissioner, Francesca Whitelaw KC:
I am delighted to have been appointed the interim Biometrics Commissioner, while the government progresses the appointment of a permanent Commissioner.
My focus will be to consider police applications to retain, exceptionally, DNA and fingerprints under s63G of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, and under National Security Determinations, balancing the public interest considerations with the rights of individuals.
I bring my knowledge and expertise as KC to the role, with specialisms in public, police, national security and information law.
I look forward to working with stakeholders and my team in fulfilling this important statutory function and contributing to keeping the UK safe and secure.
Read more about this appointment and the process of appointing a permanent commissioner.