ANYONE who wants to work with children these days must submit themselves to a vetting procedure.

The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) investigates all would-be teachers and candidates must do the relevant paperwork.

Nothing wrong with this - except for the little matter of the £36 charge, which is repeatedly levied when a person applies for other jobs during his or her career.

Once again, the state has its grubby hand in your pocket at every available opportunity. Everything seems to be a revenue-raiser these days. Even the protection of the nation's children.