24th March, 2010

At the beginning of the month the UK government launched a new international strategy to assist with the prevention of illegal immigration in the source country. 

The new strategy demonstrates the governments commitment to putting migration at the heart of international relationships by working closely with overseas governments, sharing data and intelligence and ensuring that developing countries have the necessary skills to succeed. In addition to this Ministers have also committed to support ‘circular migration' to reduce the impact of skills loss on other countries, ensuring that migrants are able to send money home and enabling those who need protection to seek refuge as close to home as possible.

The international plan is a joint strategy between the home office and the foreign common wealth office and aims to tackle the problems of human traffickers, forgers and foreign criminals to source.

Borders and Immigration Minister Phil Woolas said:

‘There is no question that migration has brought benefits to the UK economy. Many of those who come here plug hard-to-fill jobs gaps, playing a key role in running public services especially in health and education. 

‘But while Britain is benefitting, it is important that we do not deprive other countries of the skilled people they need most.  It's in our long-term interest that they have the doctors, nurses and teachers who are so crucial to their development.

‘That's why, particularly in these difficult times, we must ensure those that do come here are given the opportunity to help back home and invest their new found skills.'