Introduction/
BCA is gathering information to evidence the British Bangladeshi Community's businesses social and economic contribution to the UK as part of our evidence-based research.
The information is important in order for the BCA to engage and consult with Government agencies and policy makers on the contribution of British Bangladeshi Community's businesses but more importantly, the constraints of current immigration legislation.
What are MAC and SOL?
MAC – Migrant Advisory Committee - is a government appointed independent body that will decide whether or not migrant workers will come in the UK. MAC advises the Government on what sort of skill migrant workers are needed in Britain. Based on the advice government will decide which occupation will get work permit. Each year MAC will produce a Shortage Occupation List ( SOL). This List is compiled base on
1. Evidence that shows an occupation is skilled
2. There is a shortage
3. It is sensible to bring migrants from outside UK to fill the shortage.
4. Occupations that are not on the List will not get a work permit.
Problems for Bangladeshi catering
1.Border and Immigration Authority (BIA) does not recognise “cooks” in fast food outlets as skilled workers.
2.MAC has NO information (evidence) on Bangladeshi catering workers.
Solution
MAC is inviting BCA to submit robust evidence, on behalf of our community, that show certain occupations should be included in the SOL List. We must have this evidence ready by 25th April 2008.
You can help by filling in the BCA questionnaire. To present the Bangladeshi Community’s case to policy makers we need concrete data and robust evidence, please help us by completing this questionnaire as fully as you can. Your help is vital to the community.
We would appreciate it if you would complete the questionnaire and return it BEFORE 10th April 2008 to: BCA, 403 Harrow Road, London W9 3NF. Thank you for your assistance and time. |
