Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has issued a statement in response to the proposed changes to immigration rules announced by the Government today.
Managing director Suzanne Caldwell said: “Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is aghast at the immigration plans proposed by the Government, with feedback from members demonstrating real concern for the future.
“We’re working closely with British Chambers of Commerce on this, who are in discussion with the Home Office, including taking concerns of our members directly to Ministers.
“It feels as if the Government has taken no account of the challenges faced by many businesses, not least here in Cumbria. And we know from talking with other Chambers that this is not only a Cumbrian issue.
“Raising the minimum salary, for example, from £26,200 to £38,700, is just not reasonable, and takes it way beyond average wages.
“This isn’t about exploitative employers bringing in foreign staff, paying them less and keeping British workers out of jobs. It’s about good employers, who value their staff, being unable to recruit and retain enough people to deliver the goods, services and growth we need as a county and as a country.
“Equally it’s not all about sectors like hospitality, it hits other sectors too, including manufacturing.
“If somewhere in the UK there’s a secret stash of UK residents looking for work then please would someone pop them in Santa’s sleigh and send them to Cumbria where they’ll get a very warm welcome!”
