DNA retention

After 11 years of devolution, Labour's community safety spokesman, James Kelly, still does not seem to have grasped the concept.

He plans a move at Holyrood's justice committee to "bring Scotland in line with England and Wales" (your report, 19 April) to extend the retention of DNA for people who were prosecuted, but not convicted, from three years to the much criticised period of six years.

The whole purpose of devolution was to allow Scotland to have legislation that was designed for the particular needs of the country, and therefore it does not need to be brought in line with anyone.

However, what is more depressing is the continual comparison with England, rather than looking at best practices from other neighbouring countries.

MICHAEL N CROSBY

Muiravonside

By Linlithgow