§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what checks are made, and by whom, on the condition and status of overseas domestic workers while they are in the United Kingdom. [31102]
§ Mr. Nicholas BakerDetailed checks that the conditions of the overseas domestic worker scheme are met are carried out by the entry clearance officer before arrival. On arrival, the immigration officer must be satisfied that the domestic worker intends to leave the United Kingdom within the period of leave granted. Where the employer is here on a longer-term basis and the domestic worker applies for an extension of stay, the Department needs to be satisfied that the conditions of the scheme, including adequate maintenance and accommodation, continue to be met.
§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had in the last year to improve the status and rights of overseas domestic workers in the United Kingdom. [31104]
§ Mr. BakerA review of the arrangements for overseas domestic workers was undertaken last year, resulting in the changes announced on 9 December 1994,Official Report, columns 379–80. Officials also recently met two organisations who speak on behalf of overseas domestic workers.
§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many(a) visas and (b) work permits have been granted to overseas domestic workers for entry and work in the United Kingdom in each of the last three years. [31103]
§ Mr. BakerComprehensive figures for the number of overseas domestic workers granted entry clearance visas are not kept centrally. However, arrangements are being made to obtain some figures for the period 1 January to 30 June 1995 which I will let the hon. Member have when they become available. Work permits are not issued to overseas domestic workers.