Labour-backed Visa Plan Seeks Skilled Migrants to Train British Workers, Aims to Reduce Immigration Concerns

A new "work and teach" visa proposal backed by the Good Growth Foundation and Labour MPs would require skilled migrants in the UK to spend a portion of their working hours training and mentoring British workers. This initiative aims to address skills shortages in key sectors while reducing public concern about immigration, with polling showing an 18-point drop in those "very concerned" about immigration when the program is explained. The visa would be integrated into the existing points-based immigration system, rewarding migrants for their contribution and commitment beyond just qualifications and salary. Supporters, including former Home Secretary David Blunkett and Labour MP Chris Curtis, argue the policy would boost economic output by up to £10 billion and help improve public confidence by linking immigration to tangible benefits for British workers. The plan forms part of broader immigration reforms aiming to make migration work in the national interest, with requirements such as English language proficiency also being implemented. Overall, the policy is seen as a pragmatic solution to unite voters across political spectrums by framing immigration as a shared opportunity rather than a source of division.