Skilled Worker Visa System Must Do Better by Workers and Communities

Chris has said the UK must do more to protect migrant workers from exploitation and ensure immigration policy properly supports the workforce needs of sectors like care, health and hospitality.

His comments follow the publication of a new report by the Public Accounts Committee, which warns that the Home Office expanded the Skilled Worker visa route during the pandemic without properly assessing the risks. The report highlights delays in tackling exploitation, poor data on visa compliance, and uncertainty about what happens when visas come to an end.

Chris commented:

“The evidence we heard during this inquiry showed that while the Skilled Worker visa route helped fill urgent gaps, especially in social care, it was brought in too quickly and without enough checks in place to protect workers.”

“The Committee found that the Home Office still doesn’t have good enough data on what happens when visas run out, or whether workers are being properly supported if things go wrong. These are serious gaps that need to be fixed.”

“It’s important that any changes to the visa system are properly thought through, based on good evidence, and joined up with workforce plans across the UK, so that the system is fair, works well, and protects everyone involved.”

The report also raises concerns that immigration changes were introduced without a full understanding of their long-term consequences, including for rural areas and devolved nations.

Chris added:

“In Stirling, Strathallan and across Scotland, sectors like social care and hospitality continue to face real challenges in recruitment. I support the ambition to reduce over-reliance on international recruitment in care. But those ambitions must be matched by investment, training and pay improvements to make care a career of choice. That’s what the sector deserves.”

“The Government has taken welcome steps to restore trust in the system, but it’s clear that more must be done to improve oversight, fix what isn’t working, and put dignity and fairness at the heart of our approach.”

“At the same time, we mustn’t lose sight of the importance of international students, researchers and skilled migrants, especially in a university city like Stirling. Universities are already under pressure, and we must always be mindful of changes that impact on the UK’s reputation as a top-class destination for global talent.” 

The Committee has recommended that the Home Office improve its use of data, set clearer standards for customer service, and work more effectively with other departments to tackle abuse and support strategic workforce needs.

You can read the full report here.