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Immigration Rules: Offshore Workers

06 June 2023

Lead MP

Kenny MacAskill

Responding Minister

Chris Philp

Tags

ImmigrationEmploymentClimateForeign AffairsEnergy
Word Count: 3864
Other Contributors: 2

At a Glance

Kenny MacAskill raised concerns about immigration rules: offshore workers in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The MP asks the government to ensure that UK immigration rules secure the protection of UK workers by basing this on specific need where skills shortages have been identified, ensuring these regulations are temporary and subject to regular oversight. He also requests that employers adhere to UK employment laws and national minimum wage requirements.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Opened the debate
The MP is concerned about the exploitation of UK workers by unscrupulous employers who import low-paid migrant labour for offshore wind projects, undermining UK employment laws. He cites examples such as the Neart na Gaoithe project and the P&O scandal where foreign labour was used instead of local workers. There are also concerns about the extension of offshore worker exemptions and the lack of guidance on immigration rules within the exclusive economic zone.

Government Response

Chris Philp
Government Response
It is a pleasure to serve under the chairmanship. The Minister for Immigration, my right hon. Friend the Member for Newark, cannot be here today but will read the debate afterwards. Regarding renewable energy progress, since 2012, coal-fired power stations have dropped from 43% of electricity generation to just 1.5%, with 48.5% coming from zero-carbon sources last year and wind energy generating 32% in Q1 2023. The immigration rules for offshore workers are now the same as those on land, thanks to section 43 of the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, ensuring foreign nationals need a visa to work in territorial waters or on land. Previously, there were exemptions for offshore wind farm workers which have been discontinued recently. Skilled worker visas require meeting salary thresholds, English language requirements, and skill level standards advised by the Migration Advisory Committee. The Government aims to prioritise UK residents for jobs over immigration. For territorial waters, rules provide some latitude but not without limitations to prevent misuse; the Minister is willing to engage in dialogue if necessary. In the exclusive economic zone, international law limits our ability to impose economic or labour market regulation due to economic rights conferred on the sea area outside territorial waters. Sectoral collective bargaining falls under another Department's policy ambit, and the Government prefers individual employers offering attractive terms to their employees. The hon. Member for East Lothian's representations on ending the offshore wind farm worker exemption have been acted upon.
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.