UK is tops for 'knowledge migrants'

The UK is a magnet for professional workers from around the world who wish to work at the cutting edge of their industries, according to new research published by the DTI and Home Office.

The report, 'Knowledge Migrants', shows that high-calibre professionals from the financial, IT, health and biotechnology sectors are choosing to work in the UK because they see it as a centre of excellence and as a result, are helping ease important domestic skill shortages.

The report also dispelled the common belief that migrants come to the UK purely for economic gain and never wish to leave; many of the respondents are already well established in their careers and do often return to their own countries after one year.

Patricia Hewitt, Trade and Industry Secretary said: "This report reveals that the UK is increasingly attracting a tremendous diversity of highly skilled people from around the world. It is testimony that the UK provides the opportunity for high calibre professionals to work at the leading edge of their careers and at the same time, share their knowledge and expertise within key British industries.

"I want to encourage UK employers to continue to attract these talented individuals who contribute to our economy and provide invaluable skills, knowledge and expertise."

Welcoming the research, Home Office Minister, Lord Filkin, said: "We have a knowledge-based global economy and it is vital that we attract the skills we need to help our businesses flourish.

"The Government is putting in place an effective managed migration programme to respond to the needs of the economy - issuing double the number of work permits and creating new economic migration routes.

"I am very pleased that the message is getting across overseas that the UK is a good place to live and work, and that our work permit system is fast and efficient. Legitimate migrants have an enormous amount to offer our economy and society and, as the research shows, it is not a one-way street. Migrants' home countries also benefit when they take back the benefit of their experiences in the UK."

(GMcG)