| Author (Person) | Hopkins, Nick, Travis, Alan |
|---|---|
| Series Title | The Guardian |
| Series Details | 05.09.17 |
| Publication Date | 05/09/2017 |
| Content Type | News |
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Background As part of the major study, the government’s independent advisers on migration would also look at how the UK’s immigration system should be aligned with a modern industrial strategy. The Home Office would ask the MAC to focus the study on patterns of EU and EEA (European Economic Area) migration, considering regional distribution; skill levels; industry sectors and the role of the self-employed, part-time, agency, temporary and seasonal workers. In addition to the MAC commission, there would be an extensive cross-government programme of engagement over the coming months with stakeholders from a number of sectors, including business, industry, trades unions and educational institutions. Some commentators had wondered why it was only in July 2017 - over one year following the EU referendum in the UK - that the government decided to commission a study on such a key topic. Nevertheless, it seemed as if before this study would be published the government intended to publish a policy document on future immigration policy.The Guardian reported on the 5 September 2017 on a leaked draft Home Office paper for a new immigration system when the United Kingdom leaves the European Union, which suggested a restrictive policy towards allowing people from other EU countries, in particular low-skilled people, from seeking work in the UK in the future. One sentence in the document said 'We are clear that, wherever possible, UK employers should look to meet their labour needs from resident labour'. The Home Office refused to comment on the leaked document and it was stressed that the document was only a draft version of a paper which was likely to be formally published later in the autumn of 2017 by the government. However, commentators saw it as a significant pointer towards the way the UK government was heading. Tim Thomas, Director of Employment & Skills at EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, said 'The proposals represent a mixed bag. On the highly skilled side, the system described is one we can work with, after some changes. But, we would have grave concerns that at lower skill levels accessing EU workers will be on a completely different basis going forward'. Neil Carberry, CBI Managing Director for People and Infrastructure, said: 'An open approach to our closest trading partners is vital for business, as it attracts investment to the UK. And, with employment high, it also helps keep our economy moving by addressing key skill and labour shortages'. Frances O'Grady, General Secretary of the TUC said of the leaked plans 'They would do nothing to tackle falling living standards and insecure jobs. These plans would create an underground economy, encouraging bad bosses to exploit migrants and undercut decent employers offering good jobs. The government must crack down on bad jobs and make sure work is fairer for everyone'. |
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| Source Link | Link to Main Source https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/sep/05/leaked-document-reveals-uk-brexit-plan-to-deter-eu-immigrants |
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| Subject Categories | Employment and Social Affairs, Internal Markets, Justice and Home Affairs |
| Countries / Regions | Europe, United Kingdom |
