RAMP Principal Tim Farron MP on Family and Work Visas Debate

A Westminster Hall Debate on Family and Work Visas, tabled by Claire Hanna MP (SDLP) took place on the 13th of November. She argued that recent changes to family and work visa policies such as increase of the minimum salary threshold, ban on dependants, and raise in the income threshold for sponsoring a partner visa, by the UK government negatively impacts Northern Ireland’s economy and public services.

RAMP Principal Tim Farron MP took part in the debate. He highlighted that the increase in the income threshold for family visas risks dividing families and worsening child poverty and family welfare. He mentions constituents unable to meet these requirements who face separations and calls for the government to reassess the policy to prevent harm to families.

He also highlighted severe labour shortages in the Lake District’s hospitality and tourism sectors, which rely heavily on legal migration due to a limited local workforce and high housing costs. He called for humane border control policies that support essential industries and advocate for affordable housing and youth retention to build a sustainable workforce locally.