Chambers congratulates Francesca Whitelaw KC on her appointment as Interim Biometrics Commissioner

Chambers is delighted to congratulate Francesca Whitelaw KC on her appointment as Interim Biometrics Commissioner, effective 1 July 2025. She steps into the role following a vacancy since August 2024 and will serve for up to six months while a permanent Commissioner is appointed.

Francesca was appointed by the Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention under the Governance Code on Public Appointments. In her interim role, she will carry out key statutory functions under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, including:

• Reviewing police applications for the exceptional retention of DNA and fingerprints under section 63G of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE);
• Evaluating National Security Determinations.

Appointed King’s Counsel in 2023, Francesca brings extensive expertise across public law, police, government, information law and human rights. Her practice includes a wealth of experience in major inquiries and inquests, making her uniquely placed to take on this oversight role.

Francesca commented on her new appointment: “I am delighted to have been appointed the interim Biometrics Commissioner, while the government progresses the appointment of a permanent Commissioner. My focus will be to consider police applications to retain, exceptionally, DNA and fingerprints under section 63G of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act, and under National Security Determinations, balancing the public interest considerations with the rights of individuals.”

Jason Beer KC, Head of Chambers, said: “Francesca’s appointment is a clear recognition of her expertise and judgement in the most sensitive areas of public law. She will bring intellectual rigour, fairness and independence to this vital role, and we are proud to support her during this time.”

You can read the official government announcement here and Francesca’s full statement here.

Chambers extends its warmest congratulations to Francesca and looks forward to supporting her important work during this interim period.