The UK has the world's largest forensic database, with details of over 4 million people. Its size and the length of time a sample can be retained for are controversial and under review following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights. Find out more about the science and ethics of the database.

Speakers

Paul Debenham, scientist and member of the Human Genetics Commission
David Goodhart, Editor, 'Prospect'
Isabella Sankey, Director of Policy , Liberty

This event is free.

This event is fully booked. Spaces may become available on the day of the event. You can register for the waiting list 90 minutes before the start of the event in Wellcome Collection.

To accompany the Identity exhibition.

For background on the DNA database, watch a video of pioneer geneticist Sir Alec Jeffreys discussing the value of DNA databases in the fight against crime.

A video from the Wellcome Trust shows some different views about whether we should all be added to the database.