HC Deb 03 March 1997 vol 291 c463W
Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received from(a) Barnardos and (b) the Scouts Association about the proposed charges for criminal records checks on charities; and if he will make a statement. [17968]

Mr. Maclean

We have received many representations on this matter from a range of voluntary groups, including Barnardos and the Scouts Association. My right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary announced to the House on Second Reading of the Police Bill [Lords] that we shall seek to amend the Bill … to introduce an order making power to enable free checks to be provided for specific groups, such as volunteers, if and when the money became available to cover the costs of doing so."—Official Report,12 February 1997; Vol. 290, column 359.