HC Deb 30 July 1997 vol 299 cc331-2W
Mr. David Heath

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what regulations exist to ensure good practice by international recruitment agencies placing British citizens in jobs overseas; and what remedies are what remedies are available to British citizens recruited in this way in the event of breach of contract or wrongful dismissal by the employers. [11209]

Mr. Ian McCartney

Agencies operating within England, Scotland and Wales are governed by the Employment Agencies Act 1973. The Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 1976 in particular impose responsibilities on agencies that place workers aborad. Similar legislation applies in Northern Ireland.

In the event of breach of contract by an overseas employer, including wrongful dismissal, remedies may be provided by local law. Contractual rights may also be enforceable in the UK courts, particularly if the contract was made under English law.

Mr. David Heath

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what safeguards exist to ensure fair treatment of British citizens recruited in the United Kingdom to work abroad by foreign-owned companies. [11208]

Mr. McCartney

Employment protection legislation generally applies to employees who ordinarily work in the UK, although some provisions have wider application. Employees covered by this legislation are therefore able to pursue their statutory rights in British courts or industrial tribunals. Employees who ordinarily work outside the UK must generally look to the law and legal system of the country in which they work for protection.