§ Mr. Cormackasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made on the review of disclosure of criminal convictions; when he expects to publish the circular dealing with the conviction of those who have substantial access to children; if he plans to extend the review to the disclosure of convictions 517W for those who have access in a position of trust to people who are mentally or physically disabled by reason of age or infirmity; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MellorWe expect to issue within a few weeks a joint circular to provide for the disclosure of the criminal background of those seeking positions, paid or unpaid, in local authority education and social services and in the probation service which will give them substantial access to children. Consideration is being given to the issue of a similar circular in relation to National Health Service staff. The review team is considering what arrangements can be made to provide disclosure in relation to people working with children in the voluntary sector and independent schools. Our first priority is to introduce the arrangements for children before consideration is given to any extension of the review.