Brexit: Mansfield MP says Government it starting to deliver on election promises

Britain finally left the European Union last month and now the Government is getting on with planning the country’s long-term future as an independent nation, writes Ben Bradley.
Ben Bradley, MP for Mansfield.Ben Bradley, MP for Mansfield.
Ben Bradley, MP for Mansfield.

Last week, the Government announced its new immigration policy which will bring an end to free movement and introduce a new ‘points-based’ immigration system.

It’s also introducing a requirement for people to be able to speak English before they can get a visa.

The new system will take effect from January 1, 2021.

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Like the Australian system, it will assign people points for different skills, qualifications and professions with visas awarded only to those who achieve enough points overall.

This will ensure Britain has control over who comes in and out for the first time in decades.

The new system will have ‘fast-track’ visa routes for certain sectors, such as the NHS, science and research or other areas with skills shortages, and we’ll also continue to welcome the best students to our universities too.

It’s a flexible system that can adapt to changing needs, which will be important going forward in a fast-paced and changing economy.

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Importantly though, it will end the reliance on cheap labour and instead encourage UK businesses to invest in UK workers and in new technology, including a new £3 billion skills fund to help people to train.

So many European citizens are already here working and making a valuable contribution to our society.

It’s important the we support and protect them and the settlement scheme is working well.

This also ensures the settlement rights of UK citizens living abroad.

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Whilst every single candidate in the Labour leadership race continues to support free movement of people, the Conservatives are delivering on this key election promise.

The next phase is the ongoing trade negotiations, where this Government will put Britain first and won’t take EU rules and regulations on trade.

Instead, it will forge its own path in the world and seek a new relationship as equal partners with Europe.

I’m pleased the Government has such clear direction and I’m optimistic for the future.