The Chefs to Remain on the Jobs Shortage List

A recent report from a government think-tank recommended that chefs be removed from the shortage occupation list. To put it simply, this would have meant that the UK no longer looks to other countries to fill job vacancies in the UK.

The report was released recently by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which offer independent advice to the government about immigration and the issues surrounding it. This includes what occupations they deem are most valuable at any given time. This advice then allows the government to decide what skills they need to search for and informs their immigration policy.

Fortunately, the government choose not to implement the advice from MAC. Instead choosing to keep chefs on the list. In a letter from Home Office to British Takeaway Campaign (BTC) which Curry Life is a founding member the government confirmed this by saying, “The Government’s careful consideration of the MAC’s findings and recommendations must be set against the backdrop of the global pandemic and its continuing impact – not only in relation to overseas migrants’ ability to travel to the UK, but also the very uncertain future many resident workers in the UK are unfortunately facing.”

The Home Office Spokesperson went on to say, “The Government encourages employers to look to recruit resident workers wherever possible. The Kickstart scheme offers financial support to employers who create jobs for young Universal Credit claimants. This support is not available for sponsoring migrant new entrants. Employers will need to meet the full wage costs of their sponsored new entrants, as well as paying the Immigration Skills Charge.”

Mitu Chowdhury, Secretary General of BCA, Bangladeshi Caterers Association representing 12,000 restaurants said:

“The Curry Industry has been under enormous strain already due to coronavirus pandemic. Having to contend with an even bigger skills shortage is the last thing it needs. I am glad that the Home Office didn’t accept MAC recommendation to remove chefs from the Shortage Occupation List.

“The policy makers should understand that Restaurants that specialise in international cuisine such as curry may struggle to find chefs within the UK labour market who have the necessary expertise and this is why we should be allowed to fill the vacancy from overseas if required.”