Forensic Science Service

The Forensic Science Service (FSS) is a government-owned company in the United Kingdom which provides forensic science services to the police forces and government agencies of England and Wales, as well as other countries.

History

The organisation pioneered the use of large scale DNA profiling for forensic identification and crime detection. It also set up the world's first DNA database, launched on 10 April 1995.

The organisation became a government agency on 1 April 1991. In December 2005, it changed its status from a government agency to a government-owned company. It is the Home Office's only government-owned company. Increasing use of competitive tendering by police forces for forensic services has resulted in the loss of market share. Earlier in 2009, the government injected £50 million into the business.

On 22 October 2009, the FSS confirmed plans to close three regional labs in Chepstow, Chorley and Priory House, Birmingham, "to ensure provision of a sustainable business".

On 14 December 2010 HM Government announced that the service is to be closed by March 2012, with as much of its operations as possible being transferred or sold.

Structure

The FSS currently has seven laboratories...
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