Written Question

Mr. Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many work permits were issued under the Storage Occupation Scheme in 2008; and how many dependants were included in such permits. [256881]

Member Answering Question: Phil Woolas MP, Phil Woolas MP, Minister for Borders and Immigration [holding answer 23 February 2009]:

Answer: The number of work permits issued under the shortage occupation application category in 2008 was 7,595(1). The number of dependants is not available as work permits were issued to companies who applied on behalf of individuals.

(1) The figure quoted is not provided under National Statistics protocols and has been derived from local management information and is therefore provisional and subject to change. Figure is rounded to nearest 5.

The figures do not equate to the number of individuals who were granted permits because they include those applications approved to extend or amend an existing permit or where the individual has moved to another job with a different employer. Not all those who were granted a permit took up the job and some may have been refused entry clearance or further leave to remain.