‘UK immigration norms could ease further’

UK immigration norms could soon ease further for Indian business houses, students and tourists seeking opportunities in London.

The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which has been lobbying hard with the UK Government for easing immigration norms, is hopeful of seeing some improvements, further facilitating Indian investors and students looking for business and studying opportunities in London.

Chairman of the London trade body Subhash V. Takrar, who is part of the 22-member UK Trade Mission to India, struck an optimistic note on this count during an interaction session between the UK delegation and Indian businessmen organised by the CII here today.

Immigration issue

“The immigration issue has been an area of concern. UK had to impose some blunt curbs on immigration norms due to instances of abuse in the past. Due to this, good opportunities for business houses, students and visitors looking at London had been lost,’’ he told media persons on the sidelines of the event.

But, things have improved, such as the concessions granted in the case of transfer of employees, he said, adding that economic migrants may continue to find it difficult to land up in London.

India-London trade

Takrar said trade between India and London was “not enough’’, given the opportunities available. India was the fifth largest trade partner for London some years ago, but today it was 18th.

“This has more to do with the British business houses, primarily because of some degree of lack of awareness. Certainly a lot more is possible,’’ he said.

The London Mayor, who visited Mumbai and Delhi, is expected to address business houses in Hyderabad tomorrow.

>amitmitra@thehindu

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