HC Deb 13 June 2003 vol 406 cc147-8W
Mr. Norman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what circumstances lower skilled migrants admitted under new schemes to alleviate labour shortages in the food processing and hospitality sectors will be permitted to remain in the United Kingdom for longer than 12 months. [114935]

Beverley Hughes

Those entering the United Kingdom under the new Sector-Based Scheme will be permitted to stay for up to 12 months. No further extension of stay as a Sectors-Based Scheme work permit holder will be given beyond this point. Subject to meeting the relevant criteria, applicants may switch in-country into full Work Permit employment.

Mr. Norman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures have been taken to raise awareness of the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme in countries outside the European Union. [114936]

Beverley Hughes

The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme guidance and application form appear on the Immigration and Nationality Directorate (IND), Work Permits UK and UK Visas websites. A booklet, including the guidance and application form, has been issued to all British Missions abroad and they are generally on public display inside the Entry Clearance Offices. In addition Press Notices concerning the Programme have generated coverage in the media overseas.