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Home Office

Answer

Jon Trickett: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what identity verification processes were incorporated into the contract specification at the time that the Criminal Records Bureau let the contract to Capita; what identity verification processes are being used; and if he will make a statement; [162600] (2) what information sources are used by the Criminal Records Bureau in verifying postal addresses; and if he will make a statement; [162601] (3) what sources of data he has directed that the Criminal Records Bureau should use in conducting identity verification processes. [162602] Ms Blears: The initial contract with Capita, which envisaged the majority of applications being made via the telephone, included an on-line identity check using Experian's on-line system. This was deemed to be the most efficient method as an applicant could be asked for sufficient information to "pass" the check while making the application via the call centre. The subsequent introduction of the paper application channel, which now accounts for 87 per cent. of all applications made this route unviable as specific questions aimed at obtaining a pass score cannot be asked on a paper application form. In line with the recommendation of the Independent Review Team appointed by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary in September 2002 powers have been taken in the Criminal Justice Act 2003 to make Registered Bodies solely responsible for identity and address verification. The CRB issues guidance to Registered Bodies showing the type of documentation a Registered Body should use to verify name and address. The CRB Code of Practice requires Registered Bodies to check documents contained in this list The CRB does use "postcode look up" to verify that an address exists but does not carry out any further address checks. The revised contract with Capita reflects this.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

419 c871W;419 c872-3W; 162600;162601;162602

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Contracts Criminal records Proof of identity Vetting Criminal Records Bureau Capita

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk