Forensic Science Regulator Explained

Forensic Science Regulator
Abbreviation:	FSR
Type:	Non-departmental public body

The Forensic Science Regulator is the regulator of forensic science activities within the United Kingdom's legal system.^[1] The regulator is advised by the Forensic Science Advisory Council. The post dates from 2008.

The office of Forensic Science Regulator was originally created without any statutory powers.^[2]

The first Forensic Science Regulator was Andrew Rennison.^[3] Dr Gillian Tully was appointed to hold the post for three years from November 2014.^[4] In November 2017 Dr Tully was re-appointed for a further three years until November 2020.^[5] In her 2018 annual report, Tully urged the UK Government to put the role of the Forensic Science Regulator on a statutory footing.^[6]

The Forensic Science Regulator Act 2021 made the role of the Forensic Science Regulator a statutory one and requires the Regulator to prepare and publish a code of practice. The Act also introduces new statutory powers for the Regulator to investigate and issues compliance notices where they have concerns about how a forensic science activity is being conducted.^[7]

See also

• Forensic Science Service

External links

• "Forensic Science Regulator"

Notes and References

1. Web site: Forensic Science Regulator. GOV.UK. 2014-12-23.
2. Web site: Closed consultation: New statutory powers for the Forensic Science Regulator. 8 November 2013. UK.GOV.
3. Web site: Andrew Rennison. GOV.UK. 2014-12-23.
4. Web site: Appointment of new Forensic Science Regulator announced. 17 July 2014. GOV.UK.
5. Web site: Dr Gillian Tully reappointed in key role for setting standards for forensic science . 17 November 2018. GOV.UK.
6. Web site: Continuing cuts to forensic science threaten criminal justice . 19 January 2018. GOV.UK.
7. Web site: The Forensic Science Regulator Act 2021: draft statutory code of practice consultation information and response guidance (accessible version) . 2024-02-22 . GOV.UK . en.