Today, the Government ruled out the use of sanctions for unemployed youngsters on a controversial work experience scheme. It followed a meeting between Employment Secretary Chris Grayling with a number of firms who were concerned about the perception of the scheme for unemployed 16 to 24 year old which was coming under increased criticism.

Recommendations made today by the Commission on Improving Dignity in Care for Older People have underlined the need for the highest standards in how care staff are selected and vetted.

The REC's specialist group on childcare has responded with disappointment to today's Home Office decision to scrap the Domestic Worker Visa, against the recommendations of a coalition of businesses and human rights groups.

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the independent body advising government on migration issues, has published recommendations on Intra-Company Transfers (ICTs) as part of its review of Tier 2 visa levels. The MAC recommended retaining ICTs as an important temporary route outside of the immigration cap, and advocated maintaining the minimum salary threshold of £40,000 for ICTs lasting over 12 months.

The REC’s February JobsOutlook shows the temp to perm score rising two points in January to its highest level yet. This underlines the crucial stepping role that temporary placements can provide for workers. The ability to take staff on tried and tested staff is also one of the many benefits the agency work provides for employers.

Today, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the independent body advising government on migration issues, has published its recommendations on the 2012/2013 levels for the immigration cap. This follows a period of consultation and engagement with a range of stakeholders, including the REC, which maintains a strong working relationship with the MAC.

IRP member Ros Lennon is sending out a rallying call to help her make recruitment a record breaker for Sports Relief which takes place from March 23 to 25.

This is the weekly snapshot of REC and IRP activities including events, launches, external meetings and policy developments with implications for the recruitment industry.

The REC thas bade a fond farewell to Kathleen Smith, who has stood down this week as a Corporate Director of the REC’s Council.

Lord Davies's review of boardroom equality has been a catalyst for change but more executive appointments are needed to meet the review's targets, according to the Association of Executive Recruiters, speaking today on the first anniversary of the report.