The UK government’s new points-based immigration bill was passed in the House of Commons last night
The bill which seeks to repeal EU freedom of movement and to establish new criteria and processes by which immigration in the country will be managed, passed by 351 votes to 252. It will now be subject to further review and parliamentary scrutiny.
The legislation has been touted as a fairer and simpler system that will attract the people the country needs as well as laying the foundation for a high wage, high skill, productive economy. Points will be awarded under the new system for certain skills and qualifications however in light of the coronavirus pandemic and increased awareness of the importance of the National Health Service (“NHS”), the passage of the bill has caused some consternation. There has also been increased debate surrounding the importance of jobs previously categorised “unskilled” but which are now recognised as being vital to society.
There are fears on both sides of the political divide that the bill in its present form will alienate many healthcare workers, a large proportion of whom are immigrants. The home secretary Priti Patel noted that there will be provision for a fast-track NHS visa as a way of making it easier and faster for medical professionals to work in the health service, but there have been calls for existing care workers’ visas to be extended and for the bill to be phased in slowly rather than rushed into effect.
