Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 21 March 1997. It was answered by Lord Freeman (Conservative) on Friday, 21 March 1997 on behalf of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

Question: If those organisations which are expected to undertake basic checks as a part of contracting for Government business are also required to obtain criminal conviction certificates from employees.

Answer: Mr. Cohen: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if those organisations which are expected to undertake basic checks as a part of contracting for Government business are also required to obtain criminal conviction certificates from employees; and if he will make a statement. [21415] Mr. Freeman: Government contractors are obliged to carry out basic checks on employees and potential employees who, in the course of working on a particular contract, have a requirement to have access to Government assets. As part of the basic check procedure, employees and potential employees are required to provide a declaration of unspent criminal convictions. This may be passed direct to the contracting Department or agency rather than the employer if the employee prefers. The Government's proposals for new arrangements for access to criminal records have been set out in the Police Bill. This provides that, in future, individuals will be able to obtain certificated details of their own criminal convictions. These developments will be kept under review with regard to their possible application in the area of basic checks and in security vetting more widely.

Secondary information