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Hoteliers in Bristol say a points-based immigration system would be “unworkable” and would have a “devastating impact on the hospitality industry”.
The Government plans to start the system on January 1 2021 in bid to deny visas to what it calls “low-skilled” workers and to discourage employers from relying on ‘cheap labour’ from Europe.
But the Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA) has warned that such a scheme could force some businesses to close and cause “extreme difficulties” for others.
Raphael Herzog, BHA chair, said: “Around 40% of our operations team are European, working across various departments including housekeeping, food and beverage staff, kitchen team and reception.
“Many of the Europeans currently filling those roles in our hotels would be ineligible to work under the Government’s proposals, which will have a huge impact on service levels and recruitment.”
He added: “The tourism and hospitality sectors rely on the European workforce, and we firmly believe that if this points-based immigration system is introduced as currently proposed, it will have a massive impact on how many hotels , restaurants, bars will be able to operate, and will likely cause some businesses to close.
It comes after Kate Nicholls, the CEO of hospitality trade body UK Hospitality, said the government’s proposed pos-brexit immigration laws will be “disastrous” for the sector.
In order to qualify overseas citizens looking to move to the UK would be required to reach a total of 70 points.
Overseas citizens would have to reach 70 points to be able to work in the UK. Some 50 points will be awarded for speaking fluent english and have an offer for a skilled job. The final requisite points would be awarded for having desirable qualifications and a salary over £25,600.
Nicholls said: “These proposals will cut off future growth and expansion and deter investment in Britain’s high streets. It will lead to reduced levels of service for customers and business closures. Hospitality is already facing an acute labour shortage, despite investing significantly in skills, training and increasing apprenticeships for the domestic workforce.”
