CBI: Managed migration plans welcome

Tuesday, 24, Oct 2006 12:00

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has welcomed today's plans for restricting the rights of Bulgarian and Romanian workers.

"Migrant labour is vital to the UK. Recent migrant workers from central Europe have brought with them much-needed skills and hard work, to the benefit of our economy," said director of HR policy Susan Anderson.

"The number of these workers coming to the UK has far exceeded expectations, though, so it is right to take a measured approach and apply temporary restrictions on Romania and Bulgaria.

"An annual review of its policy will allow the government to monitor the emerging effects of migration on the labour market and on public services, and make changes as needed."

She added that the addition of two new countries to the EU was "good news" for them and for the UK, adding: "Enlargement brings significant benefits for businesses, expanding trading opportunities and promoting economic growth."