The Migration Advisory Committee report published today puts forward strong evidence of the unequivocally positive contribution that EEA nationals make to the UK’s economy, culture and society. These contributions are felt in all aspects of the University of Cambridge’s life and operations, and are central to the University’s global success.

As we stated in our response to the Migration Advisory Committee, the cumbersome Tier 2 immigration route acts as a deterrent to recruiting the staff we need to fulfill the University’s mission. Extending it to EEA nationals would further harm the UK’s competitiveness.

The University relies on a wide range of talents and skill sets, from specialist technicians to professorial roles. Simply put, the recommendations from the MAC report published today, if enacted, would not enable us to access the talent we need to maintain and enhance our place in an increasingly competitive higher education sector globally.

Now is a good moment for a comprehensive review of the UK’s immigration policies.  In light of the overwhelming evidence of the positive contribution of EEA nationals to the UK, I  call on the Government to engage with us and others to develop an immigration system that supports the UK’s research base and innovation capabilities.