New Zealand has made a formal submission to the British government on proposals to limit short-term visa arrangements, according to Prime Minister, Helen Clark.
At the moment, New Zealanders can enter the United Kingdom visa-free for up to six months for tourism or business purposes. New Zealand film crews and academics can currently enter the UK visa-free for up to 12 months. The British government proposes to limit all these short-term visas to three months as part of sweeping changes to its immigration system.
As a British citizen, resident in New Zealand, I personally think that the New Zealand Government has a strong case in its submission. As Clark says, "There is a very small immigration risk posed by New Zealanders in the UK. Our two countries have a unique relationship, and New Zealanders should not be disadvantaged due to concerns about nationals from other countries."
It is ironic that in the week I fly to the UK from NZ to take part in the UK Technology, Innovation & Growth Forum as an invitee of UK Trade & Investment, that this issue should come to a head. The UK Government are using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. I hope some common sense comes into play.
1 comment:
Most Britons wish to retain their links with NZ - few families do not have some connection.
Please bear with us until we break free of the EU! The "Anglosphere" is the way ahead!! Congrats on the Cricket.
Will UK
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