Thursday 9 May 2013

Stephen Metcalfe MP welcomes new immigration measures in Queen’s Speech


Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, has welcomed the announcement of new measures to tackle immigration in the Queen’s Speech yesterday.

The new Immigration Bill brings forward measures to clamp down on those from overseas who abuse the system by stopping immigrants accessing public services which they are not entitled to, compelling landlords to check the immigration status of their tenants, and by legislating to ensure that the right to a family life is not abused.

Stephen Metcalfe commented: “We want this country to attract people who will add to our national life, but those who do not should be deterred. Of course there are extenuating circumstances to this but we must stop people who come here to abuse our benefits and welfare system when there are many UK citizens in need of assistance. This is simply not fair on tax payers and this Bill will be pivotal in restoring a sense of justice in the system.”

Amongst other measures announced in the Queen’s Speech yesterday were the National Insurance Bill which aims to cut the cost of recruiting new employees for small businesses, the Care Bill which will cap the costs of care and extend the means test threshold for financial assistance, and measures to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Stephen added: “I welcome the Bills announced yesterday. They demonstrate that this Government is listening and that we are on the side of hard working people. I look forward to seeing the results of the new measures once they have been fully implemented.”