The UK is getting advice from Australia on a points-based immigration system, says Priti Patel
The UK is getting advice from Australia on a points-based immigration system that could be put in place after Brexit, Home Secretary Priti Patel has said.
Ms Patel told the Sunday Telegraph she had discussed the scheme with her Australian counterpart Peter Dutton when she was in the US last week.
She told the newspaper: "Peter Dutton is leading a department in Australia that's only been around for two years but they are engaging with us on the points-style immigration system discussion, something which we will be basing our own future immigration system on, to create a compassionate environment and ensure we allow the brightest and best to come to the United Kingdom in the future."
The comments come after the Home Secretary vowed to end freedom of movement ‘once and for all’ after the UK leaves the EU.
Speaking at the Tory Party conference, she said Britain would be introducing an Australian style points-based immigration system that works in the ‘best interests’ of the country.
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She said: “One that attracts and welcomes the brightest and the best. One that supports brilliant scientists, the finest academics and leading people in their fields.”
People who want to live in Australia are awarded points according to criteria including age, English language proficiency and education. Only those with a certain number of points are given visas to live and work in the country.
