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David Hadjicostas, then a fire investigation officer for Essex Fire and Rescue Service, said the forensic science adviser from Key Forensic Services failed to test the external lock on the family's front door, which Dr Shakoor and his neighbour reported was open.

A spokesperson added the Home Office would be appointing a national forensic science lead who would "transform our approach to forensics, ensuring these vital services deliver justice for victims".

The case broke new ground in forensic science when Edinburgh University helped build evidence against Dr Buck Ruxton, who was hanged for his wife’s murder.

"It was one of the most important criminal investigations of the 20th Century, not because of the horror of the case and the dismemberment of the bodies, but because of the forensic science," he said.

AI is already being used in other areas of forensics too, according to forensic educator Terri Armenta of the Forensic Science Academy.