The DNA profiles of up to 13,000 criminals are to be added to the National DNA Database to help catch criminals and secure convictions.
Every month 5,000 DNA profiles taken from crime scenes are matched to names on the Database.
The expansion will include DNA profiles from prisoners and mentally disordered offenders currently not on the database.
Since 2000, DNA samples of offenders are routinely taken, along with their fingerprints and photographs. The database contains samples from around 1.8 million individuals.
It is a significant step towards the target of loading on the database the DNA profiles of the entire active criminal population by April 2004.
In addition, the first National Police Science and Technology strategy has been published. The blue print aims to prioritise, co-ordinate and anitcipate the technology needs of the police service for the next five years.
Home Office Minister John Denham said:
"Science and technology has transformed the fight against crime and will continue to do so. From forensic science such as DNA and fingerprints, to technical equipment like breathalysers and speed cameras, and Information Communications Technology such as the Police National Computer and Airwave, new technology is helping the police combat crime."
Mr Denham also announced that the Police Standards Unit will work with police forces to make the most of forensic science and boost their performance by identifying and removing the barriers to success.
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