John Baron MP welcomes end to automatic settlement for unskilled workers

5th March 2012
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MP says public must have trust in the immigration system

John Baron MP has backed new Home Office rules which mean skilled immigrants will no longer have an automatic right to settle in the UK. Until now someone who had lived in the UK for five years was virtually guaranteed to be allowed to settle here permanently.  Those who have settled here in the past have tended to be lower-earners than those who have not. Now, in order to settle, workers must be paid at least £35,000.

John said,

‘In 1997 fewer than 10,000 migrant workers and their dependants were granted the right to settle permanently in the UK, but after thirteen years of Labour government this rose to 84,000 in 2010. Conservatives are now getting a grip and ensuring that only the brightest and best are allowed to remain here permanently.’

‘At a time of high unemployment, we owe it to people in Basildon and Billericay to ensure that our immigration system strikes the right balance when it comes to fairness. This will help foster trust in the system.’

Immigration Minister, Damian Green MP, said:

‘Our reforms of the immigration system will ensure we are more selective not only about those who are allowed to come here but also those who are allowed to stay permanently.’

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