Time to prioritise needs not numbers in immigration

Following the news that the Government has committed to an Australian-style points-based immigration system while scrapping the cap on numbers of migrants, Daniel Pryor welcomes what should be seen as a liberal shift on migration:

Good riddance to a bad policy. The never-achieved net migration target was a relic of a flawed approach to migration that prioritised numbers over needs.

The Government seems to have recognised that ending EU freedom of movement will require a more liberal approach to non-EU immigration. In recent months, we've started to see a move towards more sensible policies, from the welcome reintroduction of the post-study work visa to making it easier for those living abroad to come and work for the NHS.

In light of economic reality and changing public attitudes, the Tories must double down on this progress. A good place to start would be pushing through Boris' amnesty proposals and letting asylum seekers work. Both of these measures would boost the economy, prevent exploitation, cut crime and encourage integration.

To arrange an interview or further comment, please contact Matt Kilcoyne via email (matt@adamsmith.org) or phone (07904099599).