HC Deb 24 July 1997 vol 298 c750W
28. Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what proposals he has to reform the work permit system. [8625]

Mr. Alan Howarth

There are no proposals at present to reform the arrangements for considering work permit applications. Criteria for approval of work permits are kept under review in the light of developments in the labour market. Of course, I should be interested in any observations my hon. Friend may wish to offer to improve existing arrangements.