THE PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH ON IMMIGRATION IS WELCOME

David Kidney says that Prime Minister Gordon Brown is right to address people’s concerns over immigration. In a speech today, Gordon Brown has said that his Government has been listening to these concerns and taking action, such as the new Borders Enforcement Force and the Australian-style points system for applicants for work visas.

David Kidney agrees that constituents often raise such concerns with him:

“People have concerns about immigration for understandable reasons, and these concerns are heightened in difficult economic times. When I think of the law changes made since 1997 on this one policy subject I can definitely reassure people that Parliament and Government are listening to concerns about immigration. We do not shy away from taking necessary action and I certainly don’t think we should shy away from talking about the issue. I just want to stress that the reforms to the immigration system we have introduced do make a difference.

For example, last year net inward migration fell by 44%.
“The new Australian-style Points-Based System gives us the control and flexibility we need - ensuring those who do come have the skills to benefit our economy. But we know we need to do more to ensure that all British citizens have the skills to succeed in our jobs market – that is in part behind the new National Skills Strategy we published yesterday.

“To be clear, when our new migration advisory committee advises us of skills shortages, we will do everything possible to train people already living in this country so we can close those skills gaps and take those occupations off the list of jobs open to migrants. And as growth returns, we will invest in our nation’s skills. We plan more apprentices, more technicians, more graduates – all to fill jobs in every sector and in every aspect of the low-carbon economy we are moving towards.

“Prosperity for all comes from successful trading and wealth creation. Britain's history is one of an open, trading nation at the heart of a global economic network - and so is our future. Our nation’s diversity and openness is an asset and a source of economic, social and cultural strength. Gordon Brown is right to call on these values to help us get through this global recession and emerge better able to face up to future challenges.”