date: 9 September 2008

embargo: immediate

TUC comment on migration report

Responding to the publication of the Migration Advisory Committee's (MAC) recommended list of skilled workers today (Tuesday), TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'While the Migration Advisory Committee has undoubtedly faced a tough job in developing a recommended list of 'skilled' workers, some of the choices are disappointing.'

'There are practical issues about particular groups of workers, often where wages don't reflect their true value or the funding structure of the industry. Particularly where employers and unions are working well together, such as in relation to senior care workers, these decisions are unhelpful. In that sector, many dedicated staff will be ineligible to work in the UK, which will also be upsetting to many of the vulnerable people they care for. The Government should take account of the relationship between wages and skills when deciding whether or not to accept the MAC's recommendations.'

'In implementing the points based migration system, it is crucial that both workers and employers are clear about their rights and responsibilities under the new arrangements. These must be implemented fairly, and unions will play an important role in ensuring this is the case.'

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Press release (300 words) issued 9 Sep 2008