Recruiting the brightest and best is key for most businesses but employers need to ensure that their recruitment and interview process complies with the law, if necessary seeking expert guidance from the HR department or outside employment solicitors.
The employer can generally ask any question at the interview stage except if an inference of discrimination can be drawn. Discrimination on selection of a candidate can only be permitted in very limited cases, for instance if the use of a certain ethnic origin is needed for a restaurant to be authentic.
At interview the selection criteria and questions should relate to the requirements of the job. Avoid questions or comments stereotyping candidates on discriminatory issues.