§ Mr. Terry Fieldsasked the Secretary of State for Employment how many cases of prospective emigrants having paid fees to unscrupulous agencies for bogus employment opportunities in Commonwealth countries, and in New Zealand in particular, have been brought to the attention of Her Majesty's Government; whether Her Majesty's Government will take measures to curtail this practice; if he will consider safeguards for such prospective emigrants; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonOne case of an agency charging workers fees for information about job opportunities in Commonwealth countries and elsewhere without authority from the employers concerned has been referred to my Department. The agency was successfully prosecuted for this offence under the Employment Agencies Act and associated regulations. Evidence of similar abuse will always be investigated by my inspectors and prosecutions brought where appropriate.