(May 12th), UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that multiple new measures would be introduced to significantly reduce net migration over the next four years. He said that the policy of open borders has caused the system to spiral out of control, and it is now time to regain control over the border.

According to official estimates, eight core policies can reduce annual immigration by about 100,000 people each year. Although Starmer did not give a specific target, he emphasized that the reform will make the immigration system more controllable and fairer.

The key measures of the new policy include:

• The duration for applying for settled status will be extended from five years to ten years unless applicants can prove they have made a genuine and enduring contribution to the UK;

• Language requirements will be raised, with all adult family members required to have basic English proficiency;

• The care visa program will be terminated, requiring businesses to prioritize hiring locals;

• The immigration skills charge will be increased, with small and medium-sized enterprises paying up to £2,400 and large enterprises up to £6,600;

• The educational threshold for technology visas will also be raised from A-level to university undergraduate level, which is expected to disqualify approximately 180 positions. However, some critical industries may still be exempted, determined by the Migration Advisory Committee.

In addition, the government is considering imposing a new tax on international students to fund local talent training. Universities will also face stricter completion rate requirements for enrollment.

Family reunion visas and refugee programs will also be tightened. In the future, only refugees recognized by the United Nations will be accepted, and restrictions are proposed on the application of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights regarding family life rights.

Starmer emphasized that the reform is aimed at supporting British workers and reducing reliance on cheap foreign labor. He criticized some industries for almost being addicted to relying on low-wage immigrants and stated that if housing and public services continue to be tight in the future, he will "not hesitate" to further tighten policies.

This new policy has sparked various reactions. The Conservative Party welcomed it, calling it a diluted version of the Conservative Party's policies; the Liberal Democrats demanded that the government present a clear alternative employment plan; Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, criticized it as minor adjustments that cannot truly change the situation.

There were also divisions within the Labour Party, with some left-wing MPs believing the policy was too radical. Starmer responded that these changes were common sense, and it was necessary to end the failed experiment of open borders.

The full white paper will be submitted to parliament by the Home Secretary later.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7503704454282281487/

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