Joining forces with the Cabinet Office and the Professional Contractors Group, the organisation said that this requirement could be breaching existing guidelines.
The confederation explained that asking for security clearances before a posting is agreed goes against the guidance set by the Cabinet Office, which stipulates that credentials are only needed for short-term placements or those needed at very short notice.
Tom Hadley, REC director of external relations, said: 'Contract jobs in sensitive areas may require a security clearance, however this should not be seen as a pre-requisite for the posting. In many cases clients can wait for a candidate to be cleared.'
He added that recruiters should strive to follow the Cabinet Office's guidelines and only request contractors have security credentials when absolutely necessary.
Earlier this month, Jeff Brooks, chair of REC Technology, said he hopes the government continues to recognise the importance of investing in the UK's IT infrastructure.
The confederation explained that asking for security clearances before a posting is agreed goes against the guidance set by the Cabinet Office, which stipulates that credentials are only needed for short-term placements or those needed at very short notice.
Tom Hadley, REC director of external relations, said: 'Contract jobs in sensitive areas may require a security clearance, however this should not be seen as a pre-requisite for the posting. In many cases clients can wait for a candidate to be cleared.'
He added that recruiters should strive to follow the Cabinet Office's guidelines and only request contractors have security credentials when absolutely necessary.
Earlier this month, Jeff Brooks, chair of REC Technology, said he hopes the government continues to recognise the importance of investing in the UK's IT infrastructure.
