Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to the policy statement, the UK's points-based immigration system, published on 19 February 2020, whether her Department has made an assessment of the effect of a points-based system on (a) businesses and (b) the (i) transport and storage, (ii) construction, (iii) hospitality and tourism, (iv) agriculture, (v) food and food processing, (vi) wholesale and retail, (vii) manufacturing, (viii) education, (ix) and arts sectors; and if she will publish impact assessments on those sectors.

The Government published “The UK’s Points-Based System: Policy Statement” on 19 February.

Following advice from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) the Government will reduce the general salary and skills thresholds for those who wish to come to the UK to work. There will also be an element of “tradeable” points which will mean those who do not meet the general salary threshold may still be able to enter the UK if, for example, they have a job in a shortage occupation.

We recognise these proposals represent significant change for employers in the UK. We will deliver a comprehensive programme of communication and engagement in the coming months to ensure those affected understand the way our new system will work.

In delivering on its manifesto commitments for a new points-based system, the Government has considered relevant views, evidence, and analysis. We will also keep labour market data under careful scrutiny.