§ Lord Juddasked Her Majesty's Government:
What studies they are making of the consequences of increasing commitment to a global market economy in the absence of the free international movement of labour; and what policies they are pursuing to meet the economic and social challenges flowing from this. [HL2970]
§ Lord McIntosh of HaringeyThe Government are committed to a more integrated world economy as the foundation for global prosperity, and are pursuing policies to encourage a more flexible labour market, including through membership of the EU. The European Single Market has removed all formal barriers to labour mobility between the 15 EU Member States. Budget 2000 went further and introduced changes to the work permit system to attract highly skilled overseas workers where there are skills shortages. These changes followed a thorough review of the work permits system, and are aimed at contributing to the Government's objective of achieving high and stable levels of growth and employment, and prosperity for all.