New immigration system announced

The government has published proposals for the new points-based immigration system aimed at ensuring that only those with skills needed in Britain can come to work in the UK.

The new rules apply to skilled and temporary workers coming from outside the European Economic Area - the EU plus Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

From this autumn, those migrants will need to have a certain number of points according to qualifications and salary prospects, plus a job offer from an employer.

Employers will also be required to show they cannot recruit skilled resident workers.

Border and immigration minister Liam Byrne said: "Our new points system means that British jobseekers get the first crack of the whip and that only the skilled migrants we actually need will be able to come.

"By moving points up or down, we can make sure the numbers we allow in to the UK are in line with the needs of business and the country as a whole.

"When we set the points pass mark, we will listen to independent advice - the migration advisory committee on the needs of the economy, and the migration impacts forum on the effect of migration on society."