ChineseLibDems at Conference: The Impact of the Immigration Cap on Communities

The first event held on the 18 September at the Liberal Democrat party conference held in Liverpool was organised by the Chinese Liberal Democrats jointly with the Ethnic Minority Liberal Democrats. The panel debate on "The Impact of the Immigration Cap on Communities" included Lynne Featherstone MP (Minister for Equalities), Don Flynn, Chief Executive of Migrants Rights Network and Chinese Liberal Democrats Vice-Chair Neville Farmer.

The rationale for the cap were discussed in a lively debate and the possible adverse effects on UK industry, businesses as well as on migrants rights were highlighted. The case was made that the country faces a skills gap that needs to be filled by Tier 1 immigrants in order for Britain to stay competitive.

There were also members from the lobby group "London Detainee Support Group" (http://www.ldsg.org.uk/) in the audience who highlighted the plight of failed asylum seekers and migrants, including those from the Peoples Republic of China.