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ICT work permits - contractors' group calls for reform

Published on Jun 24, 2009 |

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The Professional Contractors Group (PCG) has called on the Government to reform the current immigration system following the controversial use of intra-company transfer (ICT) work permits by large companies.

What are ICT permits?

The contractors' group points out that ICT permits were originally intended for multinationals to transfer executive staff specialist knowledge on a temporary basis, but are instead exploited as an easy option for big firms to bring in cheaper foreign workers, often as preparation for future offshoring activities.

Most work permits require a "sponsor firm" to prove that a UK worker cannot be found to satisfy the post they are seeking to fill. No such requirement exists for 'intra company transfer' (ICT) permits, however.

Governmental review

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is currently undertaking a review of current Government immigration policy, which the PCG welcomes.

Managing Director John Brazier, said:

"We have been calling for such a review for some time, and our long history of involvement and action on work permit reform has no doubt contributed to the instigation of this exercise."

"It is ludicrous that no requirement exists for firms to first exploit the existing pool of UK labour, before engaging migrant workers. In a recession, with many talented, experienced, IT contractors out of work it is clear the system is not meeting the needs of the wider economy, and is instead causing the displacement of hardworking contractors. In particular, according to reports from our members, firms such as BT have been disgracefully exploiting this loophole massively to cut costs."

In May, APSCo also called on the Government to close the loophole which allows companies to hire non-EU workers without having to advertise the vacancies first in the UK.