§ Mr. Powellasked the Secretary of State for Employment why he encouraged a firm in Wolverhampton, the name of which has been supplied to him, to recruit engineers from India; how many work permits for employment with this firm he has already issued; how many more he expects to issue; and whether it is his policy to give the same facilities to other firms in similar circumstances.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithNo firm has been encouraged to recruit engineers from India. The firm referred to consulted my Department and was fully informed of the Government's policy of reducing immigration and of the conditions for the granting of work permits. So far, 28 permits have been issued. No other applications have been received from this firm.
Permits are issued only for work requiring a professional qualification, skill or experience and where the employment of an overseas worker is necessary. They are not issued if suitable resident labour is available to fill the post offered.
The Government keep the number of permits issued under close scrutiny.
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