Claiming ‘migration should not be political football,’ the association urged that the UK’s future immigration policy should operate “in the interests of the UK economy, rather than as a politically-driven target.”
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) echoed this, saying: “It is vitally important for the beer and pub sector that there is a clear focus on immigration policy.”
Commenting on ‘Policy options for future migration from the European Economic Area: Interim report’, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The report has rightly identified the need for an open debate on immigration and the need to take into account a range of views, not least of all UK businesses.
“The country’s future immigration policy should not be determined by a narrow ideological viewpoint, it should support the needs of the country and benefit the UK economy.
“We are hopeful that the Migration Advisory Committee’s report will highlight role migrant workers play and their importance, particularly to hospitality.
“Businesses will not have long to adjust to the new policy, whatever form it takes, so the Government must act quickly to ensure employers are not left behind.
“The Government also needs to ensure that the management of immigration goes beyond just the numbers so that it is managed in a way that benefits communities.
“UKHospitality has made the case for the sector and will continue to do so as we approach the Brexit date and beyond.”