‘Free rein’ to spy on people

EUROPEAN police would have “free rein” to spy on Britons and demand their DNA under plans being considered by the Home Office this week, campaigners said.

The power would allow prosecutors from any EU country to place people under surveillance, bug telephone conversations and monitor bank accounts.

It could also lead to disproportionate requests, with demands for the DNA of British tourists if there was a serious crime in a resort they had visited.