Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.

The control of arms by means of non-proliferation and disarmament is one of the most important aims of Government foreign policy. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction - nuclear, chemical and biological - poses a grave threat to UK and global security. This report was prompted by recent developments relating to nuclear weapons but also examines wider issues. The Committee examine: the Government's approach to non-proliferation and the institutional and policy issues relevant to the UK, the EU, NATO and the United States; nuclear weapons including the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty and nuclear disarmament; biological and chemical weapons; ballistic missiles and missile defence; terrorism and physical security; and conventional weapons. Finally the report assesses the Government's overall strategy, which is characterised by a commitment to a rules-based international system.