Are England and Wales falling behind Scotland and Northern Ireland in the delivery of forensic science? Lords to hear evidence

Forensic science is arranged differently in Scotland and Northern Ireland compared to England and Wales. The Committee will hear how the system works in these nations and its benefits and limitations. The witnesses will also be asked for their views on the sustainability of the market for forensic services in England and Wales.

The Session will begin at 3:25pm in Committee Room 4A of the House of Lords. Giving evidence will be:

• Tom Nelson, Director of Forensic Services, Scottish Police Authority
• Stan Brown CBE, Chief Executive, Forensic Science Northern Ireland
• Anthony Harbinson, Forensic Services Leadership Board of Northern Ireland

Questions the Committee are likely to ask include:

• Where are the gaps in research and understanding of forensic science from your experiences within forensic service provision?
• What are the challenges to collaborating with researchers from the university sector? 
• Are there current or anticipated skills gaps in forensic science?