Q&A

The Tories yesterday unveiled the biggest immigration policy shake-up for decades. Our Home Affairs Editor examines how it might work.

What is the current immigration system? Controversial freedom of movement rules mean any EU citizen can move to the UK to work, study or live if they are self-sufficient. Other migrants need visas. Why curb migration?

Concern over mass migration – and the strain it placed on public services including schools and hospitals – was a key reason the UK voted for Brexit. Net migration is about 271,000 – nearly three times the Government’s target.

So what is proposed?

Three main measures: freedom of movement will end; EU migrants will have to apply for visas; and most low-skilled EU migration will be blocked, while it will be easier for highly-skilled foreign workers to come here.

How might the future system look?

A report published last month proposed axing the 20,700 annual visa cap for talented foreign workers, including doctors and engineers, and also lowering the threshold to include ‘medium-skilled’ jobs, such as plumbers.

Won’t there be a shortfall of workers?

There will be temporary ‘ exemptions’ for sectors dependent on low-skilled migrants, such as agriculture. But Mr Javid is adamant that employers weaned off cheap EU labour.