UK Education; Bank offers alternative financing

Author: Anthony Osae-Brown

Are you a student with plans of pursuing a masters or undergraduate degree in the United Kingdom or any part of the world in the September admission window? Then perhaps you should pay a visit to the nearest branch of Bank PHB as the bank is offering an optional route to finance your dream using the Bank PHB UK educational loan.

Parents and Guardians facing the strains of the current global financial crunch may find the Bank PHB education finance opportunity quite attractive. The loan provides the opportunity for sponsors or guardians to give their love ones quality education abroad by contributing a fraction of the cost of the programme (20% equity contribution) while Bank PHB provides the balance (80% contribution).

The Bank PHB educational loan is offering sponsors, parents or guardians the option of not of sourcing for the total cost of study in the UK. With the UK educational loan, parents can invest the funds that could have been used in educating their child in other productive ventures that will generate more income, while Bank PHB cater for 80 percent of the cost of study.

The Bank PHB UK educational loan covers the tuition, accommodation, living expense and return ticket to the UK or any other part of the world.

The advantages that come with the Bank PHB educational loan is that it reduces the pressure on the sponsor’s or the guardian’s cash flow as it allows the customer to make repayment conveniently over an agreed period of time.

It also gives parents or guardians the opportunity to save for their children’s education in the future, through education target savings account. This account attracts higher interest on deposits than the normal savings account.

There are two versions of Bank PHB educational finance facility. There is the Bank PHB educational loan and the Bank PHB UK educational loan. The PHB|UK Education Loan support postgraduate programmes only, in the UK, while PHB Education loan supports pre-university, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes as well as professional exams anywhere in the world.

However both variants of the Bank PHB education loan come with, flexible repayment options, tailored along the sponsor’s income pattern and provide funds to cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses and return ticket up to a maximum of N5million.

The tuition fee and accommodation which is optional will be remitted to the school by the bank, while the living expense will be transferred to the student’s bank account in the country of study.

For students taking the Bank PHB UK educational loan option, the bank will offer a “quick turnaround time, upon submission of all relevant documentation while Bank PHB will also provide a Letter of Financial Guarantee to support Visa application for those applying for the PHB|UK Education Loan.

The Bank PHB Educational finance facility is available in branches of the bank however those desiring to take the loan must open an education target savings account in any branch of Bank PHB and build up or deposit 10 percent of the tuition fee of their proposed course of study.

For those who do not have an account with Bank PHB but desire the Bank PHB Educational loan in a hurry, they will have to open a current account, fill the PHB education loan application form and provide 20 percent equity contribution of the loan amount. The loan applicant will also have to provide a sponsor who must have a regular source of income as well as acceptable collateral which may be a fixed deposit, legal mortgage or domiciliation of salary and terminal benefit of the sponsor.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/finance-articles/uk-education-bank-offers-alternative-financing-846925.html


About the Author

Finance and communication specialist with experience in banking, research and financial analysis and media. Academic qualifications include an M Sc in Banking and Finance, a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and professional affiliation to the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS level I) and the National Investor Relations Institute (NIRI) United States. Good computer skills- Microsoft Excel, Access and Word-. Won four different merit awards in financial journalism

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10 Reasons to Holiday in UK

Author: Rajesh

Hotels in London are an excellent place where you can manage to get lodge. The hotels in London are provided with the best facilities and world class service. The hotels in London are popular for their hospitality and reception in the world. Whatever may be your purpose of visit, London Hotels will make you feel the best on your visit. When London takes the privilege to offer comfortable accommodation to the business travelers on their official trip, holiday in UK will be similarly cozy and comfortable. Besides hotels during your holiday in UK, travelers can also make their stay in the hostels, apartments, inns, and other forms of accommodation. They are available under different price ranges and satisfactorily offer accommodation within your budget. Since London is an expensive city, it becomes necessary for tourists consider their pockets before planning their stay.

London is known all over the world for as an important centre of culture, commerce, finance and historical monuments. If you have planned your holiday in UK and planning to visit London, then you can have every chance to know more of the city- historically and culturally. London has multiple of attractions which are worth seeing. Some of best known places of interest and tourist attraction in London that you can visit you are making your holiday in UK are as follows:

Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Palace of Westminster, Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, Tate Modern, National Gallery, British Museum and National Portrait Gallery are among the best known historical monuments and museums of the city.

So have a great time on your holiday in UK. London has the many things to do and you can enjoy the best time while you stay in your cozy London hotel. Make your plan well and book your hotel in advance to enjoy all the convenience.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/10-reasons-to-holiday-in-uk-954779.html


About the Author

The Author is a contributing writer to the website discountcityhotels.net which is an expanding company that provides hotels in London, Luxury hotels in London, London Hotels, London hotels deals, Paris Hotels, London luxury hotel, holiday in UK and hotels accommodation to travelers in other parts of Europe.

Phone: +44 20 8680 3001
Fax: +44 20 8603 7321

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A selection of popular UK holiday destinations for 2010

Author: Phil Adams-Wright

The UK used to enjoy a massive amount of tourism especially from their own residents as before the age of cheap flights and jumbo jets various destinations all over the country were packed with UK holidaymakers. Since the jet age arrived though these shores have seen dwindling numbers over the summer and other typical holiday periods.

This year though saw a meteoric rise in popularity for the UK holiday resorts, many families are now booking holidays here in the UK and next year looks to be the same case. The financial downturn has no doubt had an impact on the ability for people to go away on holiday in a foreign country but surprisingly most holidaymakers have cited different reasons such as the hassle at airports and flights being delayed as reasons to holiday here in the UK instead.

The UK is not short of variety especially with regards to the tourism across the country. Popular beach holiday resorts such as Blackpool and Skegness still have as much appeal as they did back before the UK tourists started to go abroad with many of the features still remaining as well as many modern additions such as the pleasure beach at Blackpool that has plenty of thrilling roller coasters including the Big One that towers over the shoreline. Of course the attractions from yesteryear are still around such as piers, holiday parks and amusement arcades that can provide entertainment for all ages.

The popularity of water based activities such as surfing and wind surfing has seen resorts such as Newquay and Cornwall attract many active young people to the areas and the nightlife in these towns can be very vibrant especially during the summer months. The location of these seaside areas is perfect for wind and waves due to the currents and weather fronts that can make them perfect for the thrill seeking adventure sports junkie.

For a more relaxed holiday there are plenty of popular country walk and mountain climbing locations dotted throughout the UK from the Lake District in the north to Snowdon in Wales and the many National Parks in the south such as Dartmoor and Exmoor. These holidays are great as weeks away or just a weekend break from a busy life in the city.

So it’s no wonder holidays in the UK are growing in popularity, with such a wide range of activities and destinations UK tourists are spoilt for choice!

For hassle free family holidays book cheap uk breaks at one of the many family holiday parks and resorts to get something for all the family from your next holiday together.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-selection-of-popular-uk-holiday-destinations-for-2010-1427636.html

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The Great British Getaway – Beating the Crunch with Holiday Homes UK

Author: Jordon

The last two years have been something of a bust for the whole idea of holidays. People who had money to spend suddenly have very little: and the prospect of spending that little on going abroad (where volcanic ash, it seems, might stop one ever getting back) is less attractive than it used to be. More and more inhabitants of the British Isles are starting to think that holiday homes UK could be the answer to their getaway problems.


Whenever someone mentions "holiday homes", the first thing that pops into a person's mind is a chalet or brick-built bungalow sitting in some kind of retirement park in Lyme Regis. Bungalows and chalets are holiday homes, true – but they're only the tip of the iceberg. There are more things in Heaven and Earth, a certain well-known playwright once said, than are dreamed of in all our philosophies – and there are more kinds of holiday home than just prefab chalets. Most holiday homes UK parks site are semi-mobile: caravans designed to be left in situ, but capable of being moved on the back of a truck.


These static caravans represent the ideal alternative to holiday worries. No more "where shall we go"; no more "how much is it going to cost"; and no more "are we going to have fun when we get there?" A static caravan removes all of these concerns by being placed somewhere its owners already know they are going to enjoy – a place that can be returned to, year in, year out for as long as it remains attractive. Having a holiday home in a place one knows means one also knows how much one's holiday is going to cost: and, of course, owning that holiday home means there are no worries about fluctuating booking fees or availability. Static caravans are reinstating the idea of the great British holiday – the same destination, with its familiar surroundings and people. That's making them the best holiday homes UK people could want, at a time when everyone is sorely in need of a break.


The holiday homes UK residents traditionally like command pleasant views of hills, valleys and seaside: the best, in other words, the country has to offer in terms of scenery. Static caravans are widely accepted at holiday parks in all the most beautiful areas of the UK: and plenty of static caravan sales companies, like Central and Eastern England's excellent Amber Leisure (a family operated business that has been selling static caravans for years) offer assistance in finding a pitch, transporting the caravan, and siting it.


So maybe it's time to start thinking about a return to the British holiday of old. Holiday homes UK based offer security, guaranteed quality of surroundings and an excellent insurance against the disappointments of overbooking. And because holiday homes UK based are movable, one doesn't have to re-use the same location forever – after 10 years or so, one simply contacts a haulage company and moves on to a different area of the country.


Holiday homes UK residents own can be a pretty good investment, too – something to sell, if necessary; or rent, when one isn't occupying it oneself. They're great legacies, as well: when the kids grow up, they'll want to take their own families to the place they have so many happy memories of. Wherever it might currently be sited.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/vacation-rentals-articles/the-great-british-getaway-beating-the-crunch-with-holiday-homes-uk-2481354.html


About the Author

Amber Leisure has many years' of knowledge and experience in holiday homes uk. Their services also includes motorhomes sale, touring caravan sale.

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UK Tourist Accommodation - Information & Advice

Author: Mark Walters

Have you thought of vacationing in the UK? It is a charming source of historical sites and culture and is home to many fun and interesting attractions. It should be no surprise therefore that so many people plan vacations in the UK each year. Should you be planning a visit, you will be please to hear that there are many different types of accommodation available. Among them are:


Chain Hotels - Are the most expensive type of accommodation in the UK, but you get what you pay for. Plan to spend at least $100 a night if this is your choice of a place to stay. They are found mainly in major cities and include most major chains such as Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn, etc. London actually offers several hotels from each chain.


Independent Hotels - These are one-off establishments that range from five star luxury to one star bare-bones. They can be found in most cities and towns, even relatively small ones that are not known for attracting many tourists. They can provide great value for money but they do represent a bit of a gamble as the cleanliness and service provided all comes down to the individual standards of the owners. Price-wise, they range from $40 to $100-plus.


Hostels - If you are young, adventurous, and on a tight budget, keep in mind that the UK offers hostel accommodation. They are most prevalent in London but if you research a bit you can find them in other large cities. Hostels offer a bed in a shared room and not much more. The best thing about a hostel is that you can stay in one for about $20 a night. Prices vary though so check on them before deciding to stay in a hostel.


Bed And Breakfasts - These establishments are something of a UK tradition and are very popular with UK citizens who travel within the country during their vacation. A typical bed and breakfast is basically a large house that rents out rooms to tourists. They are very personal and the owners normally do what they can do make you feel at home. As you can guess by the name, breakfast is nearly always included in the price, which ranges from $20 to $50.


Most UK accommodation have a website or can be found on one of those websites that offers a variety of accommodation. However you look, you should be able to find the perfect accommodation for your UK vacation in less than half an hour.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/uk-tourist-accommodation-information-advice-2763772.html


About the Author

Find Out More : Bed and Breakfast

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Investment in Yorkshire and the Humber, UK

Author: editor investinuk

Yorkshire and the Humber is an official government region in the UK. The regional development agency responsible for development and improvement of the Yorkshire and Humber economy is called the Yorkshire Forward. Traditionally, Yorkshire has been known for mining; however, many mines shut down in the 1990s.



The main sector responsible for growth of economy of this region is International Business in Yorkshire. Yorkshire and Humber is one of the most rapidly growing business hubs in Europe. Five main sectors have been identified as advanced engineering, new media, food and drink, environmental technology and healthcare. Yorkshire and Humber attracted about two investments every week in the year 2007-08, making it one of the most sought after investment destinations in the UK. About 40% of the largest organizations in the region are foreign owned.



The main sectors of the economy of this region include food processing, healthcare, engineering materials and greener electronics. A GVA (Gross Value Added) of over 87 billion pounds makes this region rank in the top 20% of the world's national economies. Operating costs in Yorkshire and Humber region are about 20% lesser than that of the UK while the cost of living is about 40% lesser than the UK. In fact, recent studies have revealed that overall costs in the UK are lesser as compared to the US, France, Japan or Italy. The rental costs of offices are also about 35- 45% lesser than those of London. Also, the wages are 7% lesser than rest of the UK. Moreover, four cities located in this region have been declared as some of the best places in the UK for business.



Yorskshire is also home to a large number of universities. This helps supply a steady stream of qualified and skilled people in the region. The Yorkshire and Humber economy is growing at a pace faster than that of European economy. The stable economy of the region is committed to world trade. From 1998 to 2008, the GVA of the area jumped up by 44%. The area is fast turning into a hub for foreign manufacturing investment. The manufacturing sector of this region is worth more than 14.2 billion pounds- this is equal to about one fifth of the regions economy. The sector is expected to grow by 13.7% and reach 15.6 billion pounds by 2016.



The size of the population in the region is about 500,000 which is approximately as much as Denmark or Scotland and over 300,000 businesses are thriving in the region. The location of Yorkshire and Humber region is very advantageous for business purposes as European markets can be reached from here in just 2 hours. The region is very well connected to the rest of the UK and Europe via rail, road or airways. The broadband connectivity in the region is also excellent.



The Yorkshire and Humber region is a leader in global partnership schemes. This attracts global investors from all over the world and generates opportunities for growth. The agencies constituted to look after the economic development of the region help new businesses get funds and grants from the government.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/international-business-articles/investment-in-yorkshire-and-the-humber-uk-2764762.html


About the Author

Investment in UK is an initiative to market United Kingdom as an investment destination all over the globe, to provide a networking platform for UK businesses at a global level. We also provide online information for: UK Business investment

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Car Hire Heathrow Airport, UK and Heathrow Attractions

Author: Rekha

You can hire the car of your choice for your corporate, business or leisure trips with the help of Car Hire Heathrow Airport centred in the busy city of London. You can hire cars and experience a very economical, comfortable and convenient travel throughout the city. You have many car hire options to choose from. There are economy and budget cars, compact cars, SUV's, automatic and manual cars, and luxury cars to choose from. Some cars are equipped with GPS navigation system that will help you to locate places and destinations easily making your travel a lot easier and stress free.


With the help of Car Hire Heathrow Airport you can travel according to your convenience to the various locations in the city. Car hires at the airport allows unlimited mileage, damage cover, insurance to theft and damage and continuous road side assistance. In summer and winter, cars equipped with automatic temperature settings are available for an uninterrupted trip.


You get to enjoy the locations and attraction of the city at budget prices, esteemed services and neat cars. Explore the Greater London that has got high historic values with the help of comfortable rented cars. When you travel an hour from London you get to see for yourself the impressive golf courses, race courses and tennis courts.


Travel conveniently with the hired car through in front of the home of "Her Majesty" and take a look at the Royal mews where you will find the royal carriages. Grab the beauty of London eye and the tower of London with a budget rental car.


Cars are the most beneficial modes of transport to visit places that are difficult to be reached with the help of public transport. An ideal and perfect mode of transport to see places within and beyond London like the Oxford and Stonehenge.


You can enjoy fresh air, relax in between and travel and visit according to your comfort to the vast London Zoo and the multicolor flower show in London. Journey through the old and historic streets of London stopping to get a glance of the activities at the LBFI London Imax Cinema.


With low cost rental cars, one can pay voyage to the renowned Madame Tussaud that holds awesome celebrity wax models. As you travel, you can find the airport just 15 miles away from West London. You can locate the airport in the vicinity of M25 and M4 motorways.


Heathrow airport is the busiest airport in the world which serves nearly 180 destinations across 90 countries. The car hire Heathrow airport offers services, so say good bye to all the queuing. Several other car hire UK exist but car hire UK airports offer affordable services. The UK car rental utilizes leading UK car-rental supplies and UK car-hire which have reliable and proven record like Europcar. As they have sheer bulks of reservations happening daily, car hire providers in UK offer low priced car hire and rental services. UK airports provide car rental at twenty-five UK airports which include Stanstead, Manchester, Heathrow and Gatwick.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/car-hire-heathrow-airport-uk-and-heathrow-attractions-2817571.html


About the Author

Heathrow airport is the busiest airport in the world which serves nearly 180 destinations across 90 countries. The car hire Heathrow airport offers services, so say good bye to all the queuing. Several other car hire UK exist but car hire UK airports offer affordable services. UK airports provide car rental at twenty-five UK airports which include Stanstead, Manchester, Heathrow and Gatwick.

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Cheap Accommodation in Dubai and UK

Author: Bayo Tahri

The planned city of Dubai, also called the city of some of the tallest buildings of the world, attracts tourists round the year. If you take a tour in and around Dubai, especially by coach, you will be able to catch a glimpse of the ancient Arabian culture and heritage blended perfectly with the modern cosmopolitan lifestyle. The grand Jumeirah mosque, the splendid palace of the Sheik along the beach road, the glittering gold souq, ride on the Abra water taxi, and more will just make your day. Furthermore, your stay in the Luxury hotels will add to the splendor. Dubai Hotels are renowned worldwide for the exclusive facilities offered. With an advanced reservation, you can book a discounted stay in one of the finest luxury hotels in the city. You can stay in cheap hotels; a search followed by booking at a travel site will well serve your purpose.

If you are planning to go to the UK, plan well ahead which places you would like to visit. There are countless tourist attractions in UK. Given the cheap flights tickets to UK and the availability of cheap accommodation in UK hotels, you can enjoy an economical trip. As it is not possible to cover all the tourist attractions in one trip, you can plan several trips to explore the countryside and the cities. With both cheap hotels and Luxury Hotels, the choice of UK hotels will let you decide which one to select as per your budget and penchant.

Travel freaks are now aware of the accessibility of the cheapest deals in hotels and flights online. No matter where one is located or where one wants to go, reservation can be done online to one's satisfaction and convenience from the comfort of one's space.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/cheap-accommodation-in-dubai-and-uk-2867354.html


About the Author

Bayo Tahri is freelance Hotel and flights writer and is writing review articles on Nigeria travel, Dubai Hotels,Cheap Hotels and providing information on air tickets, UK Hotels. find best Flights and hotels Visit on Star Hotels.

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The 'Magnificent 7' Attractions in Harrogate

Author: Activ Harrogate

Looking for something to do in Harrogate? Then look no further than our guide to the ‘magnificent 7' attractions the Harrogate area has to offer.


1. BRIMHAM ROCKS


Summerbridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 4DW
Telephone: 01423 78068


www.brimhamrocks.co.uk


An amazing collection of weird and wonderful rock formations which makes a great day out for families, climbers and those wanting to enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh air and magnificent views over Nidderdale.


The curious rock formations at Brimham in Nidderdale are scattered over some 50 acres on Brimham Moor and provide a great variety of weird and wonderful shapes. Many of the gritty monstrosities suggest all manner of things, including elephants, hippos, bears, mushrooms and some are said to have associations with druids, Mother Shipton and even the Devil himself. Kids and adults alike have great fun exploring the park and scrambling all over the rocks!


Opening Times: Open all year 11-5 (12-dusk Nov, Dec & Jan)


Cost - £4 for 4 hours car parking


2. LOG HEIGHTS


Ripley Castle, Ripley, Harrogate, HG3 3AY


Telephone: 01423 711044


www.logheights.co.uk


Tucked away amongst the trees in the grounds of Ripley Castle this is an outdoor adventure for the whole family to enjoy. If you enjoy the adrenalin thrill of scaling the heights, you could be walking along a beam high in the sky one moment or jumping from the heights to catch a trapeze the next on one of the fantastic tree-top rope courses. Alternatively there are low rope courses for those less brave souls or mountain biking, paddle sports, fell walking and lots more. Log heights offers a great alternative for children's parties or family groups.


Opening Times: 1st Mar – 31st Oct open every weekend, open everyday during school holidays.


Cost – from £39.50 for adults.


3. HARROGATE TURKISH BATHS AND SPA


Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2WH


Telephone: 01423 556746


www.harrogate.gov.uk/harrogate-1100


For a wonderful spa experience in a beautiful Victorian Turkish Bath then look no further than the Harrogate Turkish Baths on Parliament Street.


The Turkish Baths ritual is a journey of heating, cooling and cleansing the body, promoting a sense of relaxation and a clear mind. At the end of the session many clients say they feel exhilaration, euphoria, total relaxation and absolute cleanliness.


Opening Times: Session times vary for Ladies, Gentlemen and mixed groups – please consult the website for details.


Cost – Sessions from £13.00


4. BETTYS TEA ROOM


Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2QU


Telephone: 01423 814070


www.bettys.co.uk


The story of Betty's began in Harrogate in 1919 and they have been welcoming locals and visitors to their café tea rooms ever since.Before you enter, it's worth pausing under the wrought iron canopy to feast your eyes on the mouth-watering window displays that vary with the season. Once inside the shop you'll be spoilt for choice with over 300 breads, cakes and chocolates, as well as 50 different teas and coffees. Treat yourself to afternoon tea in the Imperial Room or morning coffee in the European style Montpellier Cafe Bar.


Opening Times: Open every day from 9am to 9pm.


5. HARLOW CARR GARDENS


Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB


www.rhs.org.uk/Gardens/Harlow-Carr


Harlow Carr is a garden dominated by water, stone and woodland and is very much part of the surrounding Yorkshire landscape. These beautiful gardens offer something for everyone with activities for children (such as pumpkin hunts in the Autumn), a fascinating history of gardening in the Gardens Through Time area and tips and information on gardening that you can apply to your own garden. There is even a Betty's Tea Room where you can take a break!


Opening Times: Open all year 9.30 – 6pm (4pm in Winter)


6. GREAT YORKSHIRE SHOW


Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ


www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk


The Great Yorkshire Show is the country's leading agricultural event. Held in Harrogate for 3 days in July thousands of visitors enjoy this celebration of agriculture and country life. There are art collections, livestock displays, cookery demonstrations, fashion shows, competitions and lots more. It is a great day out for the whole family.


Opening Times: Tuesday 12th to Thursday 14th July 2011 7.30am to 7.30pm


Cost: From £18.00 per adult


7. RIPLEY CASTLE


Ripley Castle Estate, Harrogate, HG3 3AY


www.ripleycastle.co.uk


Ripley Castle is a magnificent 700 year old castle with enchanting gardens located in the small and beautiful village of Ripley near Harrogate. There are fascinating tours of the castle by knowledgeable and friendly guides. There is a play trail in the gardens and regular activities for children including a daily treasure hunt. The castle also offers a tearoom for an afternoon break or a formal dining option for special events and corporate bookings.


Opening Times: Tours of the castle daily Easter to September from 10am to 3pm. From September to March tours every weekend and some week days (see website for details).


Cost: Adults from £7.50 (castle & gardens), £5.00 (gardens only)


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/the-magnificent-7-attractions-in-harrogate-3651635.html


About the Author

ActivHarrogate is Your Complete Online Guide to Harrogate.With Local Events,Cars,Jobs and Property.You can promote your Event or Business with us.


www.activharrogate.com

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UK immigration cap: half full or half empty?

Author: Migra & Co

It has been said many times before: British jobs for British workers, and it is indeed reasonable to expect any government to take action to protect the livelihood of the indigenous workforce and keep a tight control over its borders. However, reducing the numbers of highly skilled migrants would appear to be a shortsighted strategy for a British economy struggling to compete in the global market.


Following the recent publication of the Migrant Advisory Committee (MAC) report, the UK Government announced this week that further caps on both Tier 2 (work permits) and Tier 1 (highly skilled) are to be implemented as of April 2011, but in a change of heart after persuasive lobbying from concerned UK and international businesses, both the Tier 2 Scheme and the Intra Company Transfers (ICT) have been spared the brunt of this policy.


However, the downside is that only those transferees whose salaries exceed £40,000 will be allowed to come to the UK for longer than 12 months and the total number of Tier 2 visas available for the next financial year stands at only 20,700. More alarmingly, the Tier 1 General Scheme and Tier 1 Post Study Worker for young UK graduates will be scrapped: a move that suggests the Coalition has done a U-turn on its promise to attract the best and the brightest migrants from around the world.


The Tier 1 General is likely to be replaced by a new category with the somewhat elitist-sounding title of Exceptionally Talented: a category with a mere 1000 available places. Highly skilled migrants are fairly mobile, and as such, they can and often do move to greener pastures, lured by bigger financial rewards and cultural perks. Like anyone else, they pay taxes, however, they cannot claim public funds, and although not widely publicised,Tier 1 migrants are not allowed to extend their stay if unable to meet a fairly high salary threshold.


To determine what can only be described as the worth of an applicant, the Government may introduce a skilled occupation list and implement a points system whereby applicants will receive points based on the demand for their particular skills. It is also likely that those migrants in occupations not on the list will be unable to apply for a Tier 1 General visa.


The Coalition's stated agenda is to reduce net migration. For many, a popular decision, but has the Government really thought it through? At first, this strategy might please disgruntled voters who have been penalised by the tough measures implemented to reduce the deficit. However, it is important to understand that migrants are both customers and suppliers in the UK economy, and so one is left wondering how the low skilled and long term domestic unemployed might benefit from such a draconian policy when common sense dictates that it would perhaps be wiser to invest more funds in training and preparing them for battle in a competitive market. Surely Adam Smith's invisible hand did not envisage a protective glove to avoid the pains and gains of competition?


Further immigration caps are sure to spell trouble for UK businesses and the economy as a whole as companies looking to recruit will almost certainly find it increasingly difficult to attract enough skilled and unskilled migrant workers to fill vacancies in any sector of the job market. It is ironic then, that April 2011 will see Government policy limit numbers of the very people who could not only ease the current skills shortage, but at the same time make a significant contribution to an economy that could perhaps do with them now more than ever.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/immigration-articles/uk-immigration-cap-half-full-or-half-empty-3759495.html


About the Author

UK immigration specialist Monika Jablecka of London-based Migra & Co is only too aware of the difficulties faced by companies and individuals trying navigate the visa application process.


She says. 'It's vitally important that foreign businesses considering a move to the UK, seek professional and competent immigration and visa advice. It will almost certainly prove costly and time-consuming for them not to do so'.


Monika, whose extensive knowledge and experience of immigration law has seen her become one of the UK's leading immigration specialists. Free visa assessment service can be found on the Migra & Co website: http://www.migraco.com

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