The UK could address public concerns around immigration within existing Free Movement rules according to a new report published today by Global Future, backed by Lord Andrew Adonis.The report says eID cards controlling the right to live, work, claim benefits and use public services should sit at the heart of a new system that includes a new turbo-charged Strengthening Communities Fund, new rules and tougher enforcement of labour standards and a renewed focus on integration and ensuring that newcomers speak English.”The UK could and should make use of additional powers to control free movement in line with other European nation ߪ our European neighbours have interpreted Free Movement to secure more control – the UK is currently the only country in Europe not to employ a national ID system”, writes the groupIt says that eIDs in the UK would enable:Monitoring and security: Introduce an electronic ID Card to provide compulsory registration for anyone staying more than 90 days, giving government up to date information on who is living and working in the UKPressure on public services and the benefits system: Make a valid e-ID Card a requirement to live, work and access public services and benefits, and use it to release extra funding for public services in areas experiencing surges in migrationFairness in the Labour Market: Proper enforcement squads to crack down on unscrupulous businesses and new protections for British workersIntegration: Introduce a new turbo-charged Strengthening Communities Fund underpinned with multi-billion pound investment to reflect the positive impact migrants make on the UK economy, and boost language and integration provisionResponding to the report, Andrew Adonis said:”After visiting the 100 most Leave constituencies in the UK I know the Remain side will need practical answers to Leave Voters' concerns in the coming People's Vote – that's what this report provides.””The choice between EU membership and controlling migration is a false one. Electronic ID cards would mean we know exactly who is here and give us real control over access to out public services and entitlements. A new Strengthening Communities Fund could pump £2 billion a year into the public services and infrastructure facing new demand, and we could have tougher minimum wage enforcement and new rules to ensure British workers have the first chance to apply for new jobs when they need it.”
Group says eID cards offer Brexit alternative
