DNA database already covers 10 per cent of the population

The number of profiles stored on the DNA database by police forces in England and Wales has topped 10 per cent of the population, according to information obtained by the Conservatives.

Shadow Home Office Minister James Brokenshire said the Government "has been obsessed with growing the DNA database for the sake of it regardless of guilt or innocence". 

Brokenshire accused the Government of dragging its feet, "despite being told that their approach is unlawful". In contrast, he said the Conservatives "have set out a workable approach to deal with this issue, balancing personal freedom against community safety". 

"Just how many more DNA profiles of the innocent have to be added before the Government is prepared to act?", he added.