MINISTERS are failing to get to grips with delays over essential security checks on government officials, MPs warned yesterday.

The cross-party Public Accounts Committee (PAC) warned that the “unacceptable delays” on security checks under the Cabinet Office could hinder departments’ ability to carry out the vital work.

UK Security Vetting (UKSV) carries out thousands of checks every year on government staff, as well as on some private-sector industries such as aviation.