Thank you to those constituents who have contacted me about immigration changes for skilled workers. Migration is important to our recent history and has contributed to our economy, public services, businesses and communities.
The pace and scale of migration has increased dramatically in recent years and many people around the country feel that the immigration system is out of control and unfair. For those who seek a new and better life here, as well as those already here we must restore control and fairness to our immigration system. The Government is taking steps to ensure that migration works, reunites the country and creates a system that properly managed.
As you say, the Government has announced plans for settlement to be moved from 5 years to 10. It has also proposed requirements for applicants to have a clean criminal record, be able to speak English to A-Level standard, and have made sustained National Insurance contributions.
The Government recognises the contributions of those who are valuable to our public life, meaning that the qualifying period for settlement could be reduced for doctors, teachers, and nurses, as well as those who have volunteered extensively in their local communities.
The Government has also confirmed that it will not change the rules for those with settled status. However, I know that many will be disappointed that these changes may apply to everyone in the country who has not yet received indefinite leave to remain.
I welcome the Government’s decision to seek views on whether there should be transitional arrangements, especially for individuals or groups already afforded permissions by the previous system. I encouraged all those interested to make their voices heard as part of this consultation, as this asked for views on how these reforms should be implemented. While the responses are still being analysed, the Government recently confirmed that it will ensure that the final earned settlement model will balance fairness for those who came here legally and fairness to British citizens across the country.
I look forward to the outcome of the consultation. I am confident that Ministers will soon provide clarity on its proposed changes to the immigration system.
I will continue to follow developments in this area and support efforts to ensure our immigration system is fair, well-managed and properly controlled.
Thank you once again for contacting me about this important issue.
Best wishes
Rt Hon Hilary Benn
MP for Leeds South