To ask the Secretary of State for Health who the members are of the group set up to identify problems faced by overseas nurses; what budget the group has; what findings it has so far presented; what findings have been published; what timetable the group will work to; and if he will make a statement. [99717]

[holding answer 3 March 2003]: The Department representatives the Royal College of Nursing, UNISON, Nursing and Midwifery Council, Work Permits (UK), Independent Healthcare Association, Registered Nursing Home Association, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippines Embassy and Philippines Nursing UK to join an informal working group to identify problems faced by overseas nurses and help establish the international nurses advice line.The working group does not have a separate budget and a meeting will be held in May to review progress.An adaptation guide on clinical provision is being produced in collaboration with the Independent Healthcare Association.