APD | UK to adopt Australia’s immigration system

By APD wreiter Aditya Nugraha

LONDON Oct. 3 (APD)-- The United Kingdom (UK) Home Secretary Priti Patel said the nation will adopt Australia's skilled migration model so as to end free movement of people “once and for all".

Speaking in Conservative Party conference in Manchester on Wednesday, the minister said that government is currently working hard to make it happen.

Patel has wrote to UK’s Migration Advisory Committee last month, asking the committee whether Australia’s points-based migration system can be applied in the country. The committee was expected to give its response by January.

Australia assesses skilled worker visa applications, awarding points for English proficiency, working experience and age. It has been applied since 1979 with several adjustments were carried out since to accommodate the employers’ preferences.

The minister believes that leaving the European Union (EU) will provide the country with rare opportunities in changing the immigration system for the better.

"One that works in the best interest of Britain. One that attracts and welcomes the brightest and the best ones. One that supports the brilliant scientists, the finest academics and the leading people in their fields. And one that is under the control of the British government," she pointed out.

The other countries which also applies point-based immigration system were Canada and New Zealand.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)