PCG lobbies directly for “serious reform” to the work permits system

PCG is calling for “serious reform” of the immigration system, particularly with regard to the use of ‘intra company transfer’ (ICT) work permits. It has done so in response to a review being conducted by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), the body which makes recommendations to Government on immigration policy.

PCG asserts such ‘ICT’ permits are displacing UK contractors, and it has been making a strong case for reform through numerous meetings with the MAC. PCG Managing Director, John Brazier, stated “We have been calling for such a review for some time, and our long history of involvement and action on work permit reform has no doubt contributed to the instigation of this exercise.” 

ICT permits were originally intended for multinationals to transfer executive staff with specialist knowledge on a temporary basis, but are instead exploited as an easy option for big firms to bring in cheaper foreign workers, often as preparation for future offshoring activities. Most work permits require a “sponsor firm” to prove that a UK worker cannot be found to satisfy the post they are seeking to fill. However, no such requirement exists for ‘intra company transfer’ (ICT) permits.

“It is essential that the ICT system is reformed”, stated Mr. Brazier. “It is ludicrous that no requirement exists for firms to first exploit the existing pool of UK labour, before engaging migrant workers. In a recession, with many talented, experienced, IT contractors out of work it is clear the system is not meeting the needs of the wider economy, and is instead causing the displacement of hardworking contractors. In particular, according to reports from our members, firms such as BT have been disgracefully exploiting this loophole massively to cut costs.”

Mr Brazier concluded: “We’ve worked very hard to get to this stage and now all that remains is to continue to engage with the Migration Advisory Committee and with other key stakeholders. The MAC make decisions in a thorough, evidence based manner and we believe they have the power to effect positive change in this area. We await the findings of their review with great interest.”

PCG has been involved with the Migration Advisory Committee since its inception, and has also met with key industry bodies like e-skills, the sector skills panel for the IT industry, in addition to academics and economists, to discuss ICT reform.