List details skilled labor types that can be filled by immigrants

Another list was just published by the Migration Advisory Committee which is part of the Home Office.  The list details an additional 200 skilled labor types which immigrants in the UK will now be able to fill.  This new list leaves out several labor types that the old work permit would allow. People in the IT industry, social workers and midwives will now struggle to be able to work in the UK if they live outside of the European Economic Area.

The chairman of the Migration Advisory Committee, Professor David Metcalf, said "Don't think we are a soft touch. There are rather more jobs which we have excluded from the list than we have included."

Even if the immigrant is able to obtain a job that is on the list of skilled labor types several criteria within the points based immigration system still need to be met.  An immigrant will need to have a job in the UK paying over £24,000.  The employer will also have to sponsor the immigrant.  Being able to speak English will also be necessary to qualify to work in the UK.

Several groups are still criticizing the new immigration scheme.  Dominic Grieve who is the Shadow Home Secretary said that "This announcement shows yet again that when it comes to managing immigration the government still don't get it."

Grieve added that "A points-based system without an annual limit is pointless. The government needs to understand that sound immigration policy is not just about admitting the right type of people to Britain but the right amount."

www.homeoffice.gov.uk