The amendment to the Immigration Bill which would allow overseas domestic workers (ODWs) to change employer post-entry and obtain an extension of stay for a period of two and a half years, however it would not make granting the two and a half years extension conditional of demonstrating that any abuse has occurred.
The existing arrangement, the National Referral Mechanism (NRM), where a case of suspected slavery or human trafficking is considered by the relevant authorities, makes sure that potential victims are provided with support while that consideration is ongoing. The Government's concern is that if ODWs can obtain a two and a half year extension of stay to change employers without alerting the authorities to any abuse, it may make it less likely that abuse is reported where it has in fact occurred. This would undermine the NRM and create a revolving door of abuse where the perpetrators are never identified or dealt with.
The Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Kevin Hyland, has supported this view, and has expressed his concern that the approach which the amendment takes could create a market for criminals, in which ODWs may escape one abusive relationship only to find themselves in another.
The Government has already removed the visa tie so that ODWs entering the UK can change employer within the validity of their six month visa. It will also be amending the relevant secondary legislation to allow ODWs who have obtained alternative employment to continue to work while their case is considered under the NRM. Those found by the NRM to be victims of slavery or trafficking may then apply for a two year visa enabling them to continue working in the UK.