Immigration points system begins

A long-expected overhaul of the UK's immigration system has come into force with the launch of a point-based system for foreign workers.

The first stage of the system becomes operational on Friday - and will apply fully by the end of the summer.

Ministers say the changes are the biggest for a generation - and will allow the UK to better control migrants from outside EU.

But the Conservatives say they want an annual cap on the numbers allowed in.

Under the system, migrant workers will need to show they have sufficient skills under new rules that assess whether or not the economy needs them.

Applicants are given a score based on their abilities, with a special body advising ministers on how many points to award to certain skills to reflect economic conditions.

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This article shows how important immigration limitations are to the British government. This policy in combination with the new citizenship policy could cause a sharp decrease in the amount of "England-bound" immigrants.

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UK unemployment continues to fall

Analysts say the strength in labour market is unlikely to continue UK unemployment fell by 13,000 between September and November to stand at 1.65 million, government figures show.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said the number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance in December fell by 6,400 to 807,700.

This was the lowest number since 1975 and the 15th consecutive monthly fall in the number of claimants. Analysts said the data suggested the UK job market remained robust despite expectations of an economic slowdown.

"UK labour market data for December showed that the increasing doom and gloom on the economy is not yet hurting the labour market," said Alan Clarke at BNP Paribas.
The labour market lags activity and survey indicators are already pointing to a standstill in hiring growth Alan Clarke, BNP Paribas
However, there are worries that the strength in the labour market may fade as growth slows.

This Article is relevant because it shows that The UK's economy is currently on the rise. This is also the lowest unemployment level in the UK since 1975 which is a very intriguing number.

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