Following recent news headlines about journalists illegally accessing personal data there has been much discussion about the “fit and proper” test and in particular how such a test could be applied by Ofcom with respect to the future ownership of BSkyB.  So what is a “fit and proper” test?

Fundamentally a fit and proper test is subjective, it is applied in context of a role or position to be undertaken.  For example if you were to apply such a test to a Doctor or GP then it would be very different to a fit and proper test of someone who is to control a large media organisation.

For some employment roles the fit and proper test has been developed and documented with detailed guidelines. The FSA for example has already dealt with the issue of a “fit and proper test”, comprehensive details are published in the FSA handbook.  The FSA test, which is applied to all FSA approved persons, is based on the underlying principles of honesty, integrity and reputation.  The FSA fit and proper persons test covers a wide range of factors including:

• Criminal background checks
• Financial background checks
• Training and qualifications to perform a regulated role
• Previous experience to support employment in a regulated role
• Previous complaints of misconduct in regulated activities
• Directorship or partner of any business that is or has been subject to investigation by a regulator
• Previous employment history and in particular any instances of dismissal or forced resignation

For more information on fit and proper tests for employees visit http://www.employmentscreening.co.uk/fsa-fit-and-proper-persons-test.shtml or call Credit Check Services on 01992 719 234.