New laws pave the way for foreign workers
New immigration rules which make it easier for skilled workers to come into the country are being viewed as an opportunity for pubs. The new "points-based" system announced by the Home Office could pave the way for pub companies and licensees to actively recruit skilled kitchen staff and bar workers from overseas.
Under the scheme workers from outside the European Union with a set number of "points" should be able to enter the country for a fixed period. Points will be awarded for factors including qualifications, work experience and language skills.
The British Hospitality Association (BHA) said it was offering a guarded welcome to the new system announced by the government last week. Bob Cotton, chief executive of the BHA, said the system could help businesses cope with the skills shortage currently facing the whole of the hospitality industry.
"The industry, which is expanding rapidly, has a great need for skilled workers from overseas, and if we can attract more the UK economy and the industry will greatly benefit," he said.
"We particularly need to recruit skilled chefs but there are other occupations where there is a great demand for skilled workers. There are practical details still to be worked out but this announcement is very welcome."
Announcing the change, Home Secretary Charles Clarke said the system "would benefit our economy and protect our borders". "It will allow us to ensure that only those people with the skills the UK needs come to this country while preventing those without these skills applying," he said.
"Foreign workers will also in future need a UK sponsor to vouch for them, ensuring that businesses take responsibility for making sure foreign workers comply with visa rules."
