The Student Visa Debate
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has ruled out the possibility of granting more student visas in exchange for a trade deal with India. As he takes personal charge of talks today, Sunak is expected to meet with Indian leader Narendra Modi at a summit during the G20 in New Delhi. The topic of discussion will likely revolve around the terms of an agreement between the two countries.
Concerns and Reassurance
Downing Street has moved swiftly to dispel fears that the trade deal would result in an influx of thousands of additional student visas. There have been indications of a brewing rebellion within the Conservative Party, with senior members cautioning Sunak against relaxing border controls, fearing it could ignite internal discord. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has also expressed her opposition to inviting more migrants to Britain during a recent Cabinet meeting.
In response, the Prime Minister's spokesperson firmly stated that there are no plans to alter immigration policies in order to secure the free trade agreement. They emphasized that this has always been the case, but offered reassurances for clarity. The spokesperson further clarified that the focus is solely on business visas, and there are no intentions to change the approach to student visas.
Migrant Numbers and Immigration Policy
Migration reached 1.2 million people last year, becoming an increasingly prominent topic in the political landscape. Net migration, calculated as the difference between the number of people coming to Britain and the number leaving, reached a record high of 606,000. Sunak is committed to reducing these numbers, according to his official spokesperson, who reiterated the Prime Minister's stance on migration being too high. This commitment is shared by both the Home Secretary and the Immigration Minister.
Sealing a Historic Trade Deal
Sunak is eager to finalize a trade agreement with India before the end of the year. If successful, Britain would become the first European country to establish such a deal with India. The Prime Minister, who is of Indian descent, is anticipated to receive a warm welcome upon arrival in New Delhi. Posters featuring his face are prominently displayed throughout the city, celebrating his appointment to No10.
Highlighting the significance of the visit, the spokesperson acknowledged that it marks the Prime Minister's first visit to India since taking office as the first British Prime Minister of Indian descent. They emphasized the historic nature of the visit and the strong bond between the two countries.
Tory MPs Threaten Mutiny
However, back in Britain, Conservative Members of Parliament are reportedly prepared to stage a revolt if Sunak compromises on border control to secure the trade deal. Granting thousands more student visas is seen by some as potentially triggering a division within the party. One MP from the "Red Wall" - traditionally Labour-supporting regions that switched to the Tories - warned that opening the floodgates to immigration for the sake of the trade deal would be regarded as "utter madness."
Confronting Russia's Invasion of Ukraine
Aside from trade negotiations, Sunak will also address Russia's invasion of Ukraine during the summit. India, which has remained neutral and maintained diplomatic ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has faced international criticism. Sunak plans to exert pressure on PM Modi to take a tougher stance against Russia. His spokesperson underlined the importance of India, as the world's largest democracy, in calling out Russia's human rights violations and supporting global efforts to counter the invasion.
