Shadow Attorney General Greg Smith SC today provided in-principle support for increased police powers.

“While we wait to see the legislation, the NSW Liberal/Nationals provide in-principle support for the right for police to take DNA samples from suspects.

“We have said for a long time that all offenders should be open to this form of DNA identification.

“In NSW our DNA legislation has been regarded as the weakest in Australia and so we welcome any moves to strengthen DNA testing procedures.”

Mr Smith said that to date, the NSW analytical laboratory had been unable to supply NSW Police with the results of testing in a satisfactory timeframe. This resulted in the NSW Government sub-contracting the work out to a Victorian firm to assist with the backlog.

“Unless there is an injection of funds to bring on additional staff at Lidcombe, today’s announcement will further add to the backlog.”

Mr Smith also said the NSW Liberal/Nationals provided in-principle support to the changes announced to bail laws.

“The NSW Liberal/Nationals have long supported moves to protect victims of violent crime.

“We support the presumption against bail for serious firearms offences.

“While we await the new legislation on bail, the NSW Liberal/Nationals are in favour of restricting access to bail applications in the Local Court system.”