asked the Secretary of State for Employment whether he is satisfied that the regulations under the Employment Agencies Act are proving a sufficient safeguard in protecting young people accepting jobs overseas, particularly in regard to the entertainment industry; and whether he is satisfied with the effectiveness of the provisions under the regulations relating to return, in the event of the original employment proving unsatisfactory.

So far, complaints and inspections have not shown the particular regulations to be inadequate or ineffective. However, it is too soon after their coming into force to reach any firm conclusion, and I would be pleased to consider any evidence submitted on this point. The regulations do not apply to the employment abroad of young persons in the entertainment industry where protection is afforded by the Children and Young Persons Acts 1933 and 1963.