“Some colleges are not selling education, they are selling immigration”, Sir Andrew Green, of Migration Watch talking to the BBC

What a great debate topic. I haven’t been debating for a long time. This issue is a perfect opportunity to test my debate skills.



I came to study journalism in London at the University of Westminster mainly to learn how to make documentaries that impact peoples’ lives. At this stage I’m not thinking of staying after my graduation, but even if I decide I’ll have something in mind: some people here want me to go home.

Sir Andrew Green, of Migration Watch was guest on the Today program on the BBC Radio 4. “Not many people realize that now we’re admitting to this country about a thousand students every day of the year. There are no interviews before they’re granted their visa and there’s no check on their departure. We’re totally in favor of having foreign students at our universities if they go home again. If their purpose is actually to come and stay, they add to population and we don’t need that.”

The debate

In times of recession is almost necessary to put immigration cap. There are fewer jobs for home workers to take up. Cheap foreign labor impacts the domestic low-skill workers and they pay the heaviest price. The welfare of the needy citizens should be a top priority for the government.

On the other hand, the free movement of labor is not only an individual right. It is also beneficial to the host country. Many Western countries grew faster in the past as a result of hiring non-citizen workers. When there is more competition for a position, companies would employ more people including citizens. Economy expands and the unskilled citizens are protected socially.

True, this might help the local economy, but that deprives another country of skilled work force. The lack of such workers in any country is detrimental to its economy. Especially if we talk about the European Union its integrity depends on the strength of each member.

Yes, the European Union’s integrity is important, but does it to make compromises with the right to free travel and labor?

In conclusion

Once again, missing the point of the European Union. As for the British education, I'm satisfied at the moment and confident that it will be helpful. The front page message on the Education UK web site verifies : “UK education is all about you. No matter what level, you’ll have the flexibility to shape your study to suit your needs. This freedom; combined with a centuries-old tradition of excellence and an innovative approach to teaching makes UK education recognized and respected all over the world.”