ASI comments on Migration Advisory Committee thresholds report

The Adam Smith Institute welcomed the recommendations of the Migration Advisory Committee for a more welcoming visa system after Brexit.

The ASI’s Head of Research Matthew Lesh said:

“Today’s Migration Advisory Committee recommendation to lower the income threshold is an important first step – but we should remember that income is an arbitrary measure to restrict migration. Now that the numbers target has been dropped, the government should stick to their commitment to scrap the salary threshold as well.

“The MAC report’s recommendations to make it easier to migrate for those with a job offer, and provide more pathways for the exceptionally talented without an offer, are also important steps. But we should be moving towards an even more welcoming system, lowering fees and thresholds to enable more people who could contribute to the UK.

“Recent rises in public support for migration underline that Brexit was never to bring up the drawbridge on immigrants – but to ensure immigration matches the needs of the economy and aspirations of society while being under control. A clear and coherent policy can rebuild trust in the migration system while keeping it responsive to the needs of the economy.”