Dr Marc Bailey has been appointed as the Forensic Science Regulator for England and Wales.

Dr Bailey is a scientist who has significant regulatory experience. He has held multiple roles within the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and led international research in quality systems and standardisation, including whilst working at the National Physical Laboratory.

The Forensic Science Regulator is responsible for ensuring that the provision of forensic science services across England and Wales meet the highest standards of quality and integrity. This includes assessing compliance, providing advice to ministers, setting quality standards and ensuring that all forensic science providers adhere to these standards.

Dr Bailey will work closely with the police, forensic science providers and the legal profession to ensure that forensic science in England and Wales remains at the forefront of innovation and reliability.

Dr Bailey will officially assume his duties after Gary Pugh’s term concludes on 25 July 2025.

Crime and Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:

Dr Bailey is going to bring a wealth of experience and expertise as the new Forensic Science Regulator.

This pivotal role is essential in ensuring the highest standards of forensic science are upheld.

By setting rigorous standards and providing robust oversight, the Forensic Science Regulator will continue to ensure that forensic science supports the work of the police, allowing them to investigate crimes and bring justice for victims.

I’d like to thank Gary Pugh for his previous work in this role.

Dr Bailey said:

I am delighted to be appointed to the post of Forensic Science Regulator.

I look forward to enacting and developing the regulation of Forensic Science and working with the team that support my role to ensure that the criminal justice system has full confidence in forensic science evidence.