Written question asked by Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 5 May 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 1998. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 18 May 1998 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what account her Department takes of criminal records consisting solely of homosexual activity engaged in prior to 1982, where such activity has been decriminalised, in determining (a) security clearance and (b) employment within the RUC; and what changes to regulations have taken place since 1994.

Answer: Dr. Harris: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what account her Department takes of criminal records consisting solely of homosexual activity engaged in prior to 1982, where such activity has been decriminalised, in determining (a) security clearance and (b) employment within the RUC; and what changes to regulations have taken place since 1994. [41156] Mr. Ingram: A candidate must meet the recruiting criteria in every respect. The RUC will take into account convictions for any and all criminal offences. The fact that an offence may have been decriminalised is not considered relevant. There have been no changes in policy relating to sexual orientation since 1994.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 312 c235W; 41156
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Criminal records Employment Homosexuality National security Recruitment Vetting Royal Ulster Constabulary