Street begging is not in itself illegal in Scotland but it became a recordable offence in England last year.

BBC: Aggressive begging is a problem on the streets of Aberdeen

And since April 2004, police have been able to take and keep samples from anyone arrested for a recordable offence, even if charges do not ensue.

ECONOMIST: DNA evidence

Since 2004, the data of everyone arrested for a recordable offence - all but the most minor offences - has remained on the system regardless of their age, the seriousness of their alleged offence, and whether or not they were prosecuted.

BBC: RELATED BBC SITES