Labour’s candidate for Bridgwater and West Somerset, Mick Lerry, has called for a sensible, measured debate on immigration, saying we must address people’s concerns while recognising the positive contribution made by workers from abroad.
Mick said: “Immigration is important for Britain’s future and that’s why it needs to be properly controlled and managed. We are proud of our diverse and outward-facing country, where people have come from abroad over many generations to build Britain’s businesses, work in our public services and contribute to this country. We also understand the legitimate concerns people have and believe reforms are needed”.
Migrants make net contribution of £20bn to UK
“Recent news shows that European migrants made a net contribution of £20bn to UK public finances between 2000 and 2011. Those from the 15 countries, which made up the EU before 2004, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain, contributed £15bn more in taxes than they received in welfare, while east European migrants contributed £5bn more. European migrants to the UK are not a drain on Britain’s finances and pay out far more in taxes than they receive in state benefits.
“Immigration has to be to be properly controlled and managed – we need top international talent and investment, but we also need fair and efficient border controls. We need reform in Europe so we can have stronger controls on countries joining the EU and international co-operation to fight crime. And Labour would stop Child Benefit being awarded to parents whose children are living abroad.
Action against firms exploiting zero hours contracts
“We also need much stronger action to stop employers who are exploiting cheap migrant labour to undercut wages and jobs. Labour would stop agencies recruiting only from abroad. And we would take action against firms that are exploiting zero hours contracts or not paying the minimum wage. No other party is willing to tackle these issues”, said Mick
“The Tory approach isn’t working. They set a net migration target, which has badly failed and they have done nothing to deal with dodgy firms who exploit migrant labour to undercut workers. David Cameron promised “no ifs no buts” he would meet his net migration target. Yet net migration is the same now as when they came to office. Their target is in tatters.
Recognising the benefits immigration can bring
“By isolating the UK, UKIP would make it harder to stop illegal immigration and tackle the crisis at Calais. They would make it harder to catch criminals who cross borders, because they would abolish the European Arrest Warrant. And by cutting employment rights, UKIP would make it harder to stop dodgy firms exploiting immigration to undercut wages and jobs.
“That’s why with Ed Miliband, Labour has set out a new progressive approach to immigration, which recognises the benefits immigration can bring, and also sets out practical policies to control immigration, address the impact on jobs, wages and communities and make the system fairer for all.”
Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgwater and West Somerset Constituency Email: michael.lerry@btinternet.com
Mobile: 07775 905080