Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government when the Cross-Whitehall International Recruitment Steering Group last met; and what steps they are taking to prevent abusive employment practices towards healthcare recruits from overseas.

The Cross Whitehall International Recruitment Steering Group last met on 9 November 2022.

On 15 December 2022 my Department published guidance on Applying for a Health and Care Job from Abroad. The guidance raises awareness about the risks involved in seeking a health or care job in the United Kingdom, sets out working rights and standards, how to identify and deal with exploitation and signposts to further help or support.

In August 2022 the Code of Practice for International Recruitment of Health and Social Care Personnel was updated and strengthened in several areas to address ethical concerns about employment practices, including setting four new principles on the use of repayment clauses.