Commenting on the opening of the government’s points-based immigration system, BCC Head of People Policy Jane Gratton said:   

“While a faster and simpler route for accessing skilled workers from outside the UK is helpful for employers, the new immigration system brings additional costs, restrictions and bureaucracy for businesses who are unable to recruit from their local labour market.   

“Government must do all it can to reduce the cumulative cost burden of employment that weighs down on firms’ ability to invest.  It is also vital that the skills system delivers for businesses on the ground, enabling employers to upskill and reskill the adult workforce quickly and flexibly for the challenges that lie ahead.”