APPG on Migration published its findings into UK Post-Study Work Opportunities for International Students on 24 February 2015. DOWNLOAD Full Report (PDF)
The inquiry examined the impact of the closure of the former popular Tier 1 Post-Study Work visa on universities, foreign students, and local economies and the successes of the new tiers.
The cross-party panel of parliamentarians warned that British universities are now losing out in the global race to attract international students, in particular to other Anglophone countries with more attractive post study work opportunities such as the United States, Australia and Canada.
The Cross-party group of MPs and Peers called on the Government to maximise the UK’s offer to international students, by opening a new route for work in the UK after graduation.
Labour MP Paul Blomfield, Chair of the APPG on Migration and Chair of the Inquiry Committee, said:
The report lays bare the negative impact that closure of the former post-study work visa has had on British businesses and universities. Alternative visa routes have failed to attract talent and have actually prevented skilled graduates from contributing to the UK jobs market. There is strong cross-party agreement on the need to take action to restore our reputation as the ‘destination of choice’ for international students from all countries. This report offers a sensible and workable set of recommendations that could make a difference.
Conservative MP Richard Bacon, member of the APPG on Migration inquiry committee, said:
Higher education is one of our country's leading export success stories, increasing our soft power and helping the UK shape the world of the future. But the government's current approach to post-study work and student migration policy is jeopardising Britain’s position in the global race for talent. We are already losing out to countries with a more sensible approach such as Australia, Canada and the United States. Such a short-sighted stance is damaging to our economy and hinders the delivery of the Government’s long term economic plan. We need to adjust our policy and improve our ability to attract students from around the world.