10 November 2004
Figures out today show that workers from new European Union countries are registering their status and contributing to UK productivity.
New statistics show that just under 91,000 nationals from eight of the European Union (EU) accession states registered for work between May and September. Up to 45 per cent were already here before 1 May.
Between May and September alone new EU workers have contributed approximately £120m to the UK economy and paid approximately £20m in tax and national insurance.
Numbers registering fell considerably in August and September from their peak over the summer and there is anecdotal evidence that many have already gone home.
They have helped alleviate recruitment difficulties in sectors such as hospitality and agriculture, and legalising those who had previously not been paying taxes.
Home Secretary David Blunkett said the scheme was a success. It enabled the Government to carefully monitor the impact of workers coming from the EU on the labour market, he added.
Mr Blunkett said:
"Our common sense approach to EU enlargement has put us at a clear advantage compared to the rest of Europe.
"Illegal workers have legitimised their status and are contributing to the economy, benefiting from protection in the workplace and allowing us to focus resources on other forms of illegal working."
This would be done through tightening the UK’s border controls, stepping up enforcement activity and removals and targeting employers who exploit their workforce, Mr Blunkett said.
The Government’s policy is that accession nationals are welcome to come to the UK to work but not to claim benefits.
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