David Stringer-Lamarre was pleased to attend this informative discussion at the Institute of Directors, Pall Mall. The Event Moderator was Allie Renison, IoD Head of Europe and Trade Policy.

Many strands were considered relating to potential future immigration policy of the UK and how it may affect business. Consideration was made of how a system may be managed including a work permit system, seasonal visas and preference for certain countries/regions.

It was interesting to hear that there are 2.3 million EU workers currently in the UK and suggestions for what may or may not happen regarding ‘replacement workers’ post Brexit.

The timing of a new immigration policy and its actual implementation, including transitional arrangements, were discussed. Note was made that business had to undertake scenario planning as best it could with the emerging information that was available.

Speakers:

• Rt. Hon. Iain Duncan Smith MP, former Work and Pensions Secretary
• Jonathan Portes, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at Kings College London, formerly Chief Economist at the Department for Work and Pensions and Cabinet Office
• Julia Onslow-Cole, Partner, Global Head of Immigration at PwC