asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether now that it has been decided that essential criminal records checks for volunteers working with children are to be free in Scotland, they will reconsider the decision not to make such checks free in England and Wales. [HL189]

We have noted with interest the decision which our Scottish colleagues have taken. We have yet to announce the precise arrangements which will apply to checks on volunteers in England and Wales, but when we do so we will certainly take into account the representations from noble Lords, honourable Members of the other place, and the voluntary sector.