§ Patrick MercerTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport who is responsible for vetting the histories of applicants to become(a) port facility security officers and (b) airport security officers; and what the vetting process is. [169960]
§ Mr. JamiesonBoth port facility security officers and airport security officers are required to undergo appropriate vetting procedures. This is carried out by the vetting section of my Department's Transport Security Directorate (TRANSEC) in conjunction with other Government Agencies.
No Government clearance will be issued until we are satisfied the person in question does not pose a security threat. The vetting process includes stringent reference checks over a number of years, and a verification process to ensure no inexplicable gaps.
§ Patrick MercerTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) how much time it takes to train(a) port facility security officers and (b) airport security officers. [169961];
(2) whether the level of training given to port facility security officers will have to be reviewed for the UK to be compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Code to be implemented by the UK on 1 July. [170066]
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§ Mr. JamiesonMy Department's Transport Security Directorate (TRANSEC) is responsible for developing the required training standards and course criteria for Port and Airport Security Officers.
In order to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) Code, all Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs) must have completed a TRANSEC approved PFSO course.
Under the UK National Aviation Security Programme all staff carrying out listed security activities at UK airports have to receive mandatory training modules applicable to their duties.
TRANSEC carries out regular audits of training providers to ensure high standards and compliance with legal requirements.