Trade Negotiations
Debate between Baroness Gustafsson and Baroness Lawlor(2 days ago)
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Baroness Lawlor (Con)
The Minister mentioned that Indian firms could send their employees to work here. Do the Government have any idea of the numbers involved? Will they put a cap on those numbers, bearing in mind the Prime Minister’s statement yesterday and that of the Home Secretary? What mechanisms will be in place to ensure that when the three years are over, those employees will return? The Minister mentioned that there was a worry, which she answered, that they would undercut British workers. What steps will be taken so that UK workers—local workers—can avail themselves of the opportunities of this deal by seeking employment with Indian firms?
Baroness Gustafsson (Lab)
To provide some reassurance, there is no change in the visa process. The points-based immigration system is not affected, so there is no change in the various routes for visa applications as a consequence of this deal. In those limited instances where detached workers are employed by an Indian company on a short-term contract within the UK, they will not be paying social security contributions in both situations. This will not in any way change the immigration policy around visa applications; that will be consistent with the current processes to ensure that any visas granted are applied and people are understood to be in the country legally. Where they are not, the procedures will be as normal.
Baroness Gustafsson (Lab)
I assure the noble Lord that that worry is unfounded and that the numbers will not change. I am happy to write to him to follow up on the sectors that will now be included.
Baroness Lawlor (Con)
Could the Minister write to me and let me know what numbers are involved in company transfers to this country as matters stand? Do we have any idea of the numbers that companies will want permission to send here?