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Security Standard

    Appointment to the Fast Stream depends on the satisfactory outcome of certain checks. For example, you will be asked to verify your identity and to provide evidence to account for any period of more than six months abroad during the previous three years. More information about these and other necessary checks will be provided if your application is successful. The results of the checks will be passed to the HR and/or security staff in your employing department.

Last updated - 7th August 2009

Some departments routinely clear all their new Fast Streamers to a certain level of security above the checks which we ourselves carry out. If you have spent a significant part of the last five years out of the UK, they might be unable to carry out such clearance and therefore to employ you. For this reason, the range of departments open to you might be limited. However, the Fast Stream operates on behalf of the whole Civil Service and if you are successful you will be guaranteed a place.

Please note that if you are able to provide the information required but decline to do so, you will automatically forfeit your place in the Fast Stream. If you knowingly provide false information, you might be committing a criminal offence; and if deliberate deception comes to light after your appointment, you might be dismissed. If there are reasons why it is impossible for you to provide the required information, we shall consider alternative ways of checking your suitability for employment in the Civil Service.