On Monday 12 May 2025, the UK Government published an Immigration White Paper: Restoring control over the immigration system. It sets out the Government's plans to "create an immigration system which promotes growth but is controlled and managed".
Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, has responded to the paper:
“The UK’s global leadership in health and biomedical research relies on our ability to attract and retain exceptional international talent. We welcome the white paper’s recognition that global competition for research talent is increasing and its commitment to enhancing opportunities for researchers through targeted routes, including making the Global Talent visa simpler and easier to access. But cost is also important - our visa system is one of the most expensive in the world and will remain a major impediment to attracting the best people.
“The Academy's ‘Future-proofing UK Health Research’ report highlights how immigration policies directly impact our research competitiveness. As these reforms progress, we will continue to work constructively with Government to ensure changes are implemented in ways that sustain our research ecosystem and affirm that the UK remains a world-leading destination for scientific careers that power progress and economic growth.”