New biometrics commissioner appointed

The governor of Sheffield Hallam University has been appointed the government’s new biometrics commissioner.

The Home Office announced on Thursday (June 16) that Professor Paul Wiles has taken over the role from Alastair MacGregor QC, who has completed his three-year tenure.

Professor Wiles has worked as an academic criminologist at a number of universities, and alongside his governorship he is currently a trustee of the National Centre for Social Research.

Until 2015, he served as an advisor to the Sentencing Council, and previously worked as chief scientific adviser to the Home Office.

Professor Wiles said: “Legal regulation with independent oversight by a commissioner is essential for maintaining public trust in the holding and use of biometric material by the police.

“I am looking forward to this new role.”