The Federation of Small Businesses, FSB, is calling on clarity over the future status of European Union citizens currently working in the UK post-Brexit.
It said one in five small employers rely on staff from the EU with many employees falling outside the traditional definition of ‘highly skilled’.
FSB chairman, Mike Cherry, said: “The government should be leaving EU citizens in no doubt about their right to remain after Brexit. Uncertainty has been rife in this area, with small firms left in the dark as to how our immigration system will work post-Brexit.”
The government said the new immigration bill would ensure resident European citizens, who have built their lives in the UK, would have the right to remain.
Businesses need to be consulted over immigration
Mr Cherry said the bill announced in today’s Queen’s speech provided more of a steer for the future but said it was crucial SMEs were given a say.
“It’s vital that the formation of a new system from 2021 is evidence-led, with small businesses thoroughly consulted on fresh measures.”
Commercial Loans by HZA
Brokers Hank Zarihs Associates added housebuilders needed to have clarity over immigration and employment status of their workforce. It explained workforce availability was an important issue for commercial development finance lenders when deciding construction loans for a new scheme.
