Sunak Yields to Cabinet on Graduate Visa Scheme Amidst Migration Debate

Rishi Sunak seems to yield to cabinet influence regarding the post-study work visa policy. Following discussions with Lord Cameron and Jeremy Hunt, the allowance for students to remain in the UK for two years post-graduation will continue.

Political correspondent @NifS

Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 10:

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has given in to demands from key members of his cabinet concerning planned modifications to the graduate visa program.

There were claims that he intended to reduce or eliminate the policy allowing students to remain in the country for two years after their graduation, as he was under mounting pressure from the conservative faction of his party to decrease the unprecedented levels of legal immigration.

Sky News has learned that following interventions by Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, and Home Secretary James Cleverly, who reportedly expressed worries about the potential negative effects on universities and the economy, the current period will be maintained.

Live Politics: UK Grapples with Escalating Protest Issues

Sky News has learned that the government is set to announce new measures this week, aligning with the release of the latest net migration statistics.

The measures will involve stricter regulations on representatives promoting UK degree programs abroad and mandating English proficiency exams for certain foreign students.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

However, Mr. Sunak is expected to encounter strong opposition from former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who has recently demanded the complete elimination of the graduate visa program, and former Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, who has described it as "a loophole allowing foreign students to engage in low-paid employment."

A source from the government informed Sky News that the decision demonstrated "effective governance," indicating that every cabinet minister had assessed the implications of their policy proposals and relayed them to the head of government.

The home secretary initiated an urgent assessment of the graduate visa pathway in March to investigate potential misuse and concerns that it may be primarily motivated by immigration intentions.

In its latest report, published last week, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) recommended that the current policy should be maintained. They argued it plays a vital role in supporting the financial health of British universities and does not compromise the quality or integrity of higher education.

Stay informed with the most recent updates from the UK and global news by tuning into Sky News.

The administration has unveiled several new initiatives aimed at reducing legal migration, following a report from the Office for National Statistics in November indicating that net migration reached 745,000 in 2022. These measures include prohibiting students from bringing family members and raising the income threshold required to obtain a visa.

Associated Subjects

Footer for Sky News

Information About Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Channels Under Sky

Additional Sites from Sky