Written question asked by Chris Huhne (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 14 May 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 16 May 2008. It was answered by Lord Brennan of Canton (Labour) on Monday, 2 June 2008 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Departmental Vetting

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families whether (a) UK citizens born in the UK, (b) UK citizens born abroad and (c) foreign nationals recruited to his Department and its agencies are subject to (i) UK and (ii) overseas criminal record checks; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Since 2002, it has been my Department's policy to complete enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks for all individuals (regardless of place of birth) who occupy certain 'regulated' posts as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. These posts involve direct contact with children or vulnerable adults. From 12 December 2007, following an amendment to the aforementioned Order, my Department has also completed enhanced checks for all individuals (again regardless of place of birth) who occupy posts with access to sensitive or personal information about children or vulnerable adults.The Cabinet Office's Baseline Personnel Security Standard Good Practice Guide indicates that in certain circumstances overseas checks may be required. My Department complies with this guidance and ensures that appropriate checks are carried out where a lack of UK residence requires it.

Secondary information