Who has the top secret clearance in the UK?

Top secret clearance is the process of being vetted to view restricted or classified information. Part of this top secret clearance involves a thorough background check of the individual. An individual who has undertaken a top secret clearance however, has to justify why he needs to see the information and provides valid reasons for doing so.

Security checks

When an individual undertakes a clearance, they will be allocated into one of four categories, which depend upon the level at which certain materials are classified. There are five main levels of checks which are undertaken that depend upon the content of material being accessed. Types of security check The Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) is undertaken for the personnel who requires the access to material which is protectively marked. Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks are undertaken to allow routine and unrestricted access to material marked ‘restricted. Within this check, identity, signature address, employment and education details will have to be confirmed. Security Check (SC) clearance enables an individual to access material which has been marked. ‘Secret’ and the check will consist of Criminal Records and police checks, checks in accordance with the Security Service Act 1989, credit reference and a review of personal finance will also be made. In some instances, an interview may be required and this process will be repeated every ten years. Security Clearance Enhanced (SCE) Security Clearance Enhanced (SCE) clearance is a new check which is for individuals who carry out regular work related to top secret information. An enhanced check will consist of a CRB and police check, any relevant checks under the Security Service Act 1989, credit reference checks and a personal finance review, an interview and character references. Developed Vetting (DV) Developed Vetting (DV) is the most enhanced check and allows the access to material marked as ‘top secret’ The process consists of a CRB and police check, any checks relevant to the Security Service Act 1989, credit reference checks and a review of personal finances, an interview, character references and a re-examination of the application which may include a psychological re-evaluation. This process is repeated at least every eighteen months.

Who would need top secret clearance?

Individuals employed as Officers in the British Armed Forces are cleared to SC to enable them to undertake their jobs. Employees of the Royal Corps of Signals, all soldiers appointed to the Foreman Signals or Yeoman of Signals and certain individuals within the Intelligence Corps have to undertake the Developed Vetting clearance. In addition, all individuals who are security checked at any of the above levels are required to sign the Official Secrets Act.