Vince Cable has once again called for Conservative ministers to avoid imposing immigration controls that could hurt businesses and slow economic growth in the UK.
The Business Secretary said he believes an immigration cap that prevents companies from employing foreign workers would reduce the UK’s economic competitiveness. He also said that last year’s increase in net immigration, announced this week, was not due to foreign workers from outside the European Union
moving to the United Kingdom.
According to a report by the Express newspaper, Mr Cable said: “It’s very clear from the figures that the increase in immigration has nothing to do with the number of non-EU work permits issued. They have actually declined.
“I’ve full confidence that my colleagues understand the need for immigration control measures that support business recovery and economic growth.”
Earlier this week, a
survey of 600 employers found that 45 per cent of companies asked had vacancies they were struggling to fill. Businesses believe it will become even harder to find suitable candidates if they are prevented from recruiting abroad and finding foreigners willing to consider
international relocation.
