Responding to the government’s plans for a new points-based immigration system, Richard Brown, Deputy Director at Centre for London said:

“Clarity on the new immigration system will be welcomed by London employers, as will the lower salary thresholds proposed by the government.

“However, London sectors such as construction, hotels and restaurants, in which around a third of workers currently come from other European countries, will face big challenges if their jobs are defined as ‘low skill’, and therefore ineligible for work visas.

“In the long term this may trigger welcome improvements to working conditions, a renewed focus on training British workers, and more investment in technology, but the transition could be rough for many small businesses.”

ENDS