Whitehall thinktank, the Institute for Government (IfG), is recommending that the government introduces an annual migration plan to rectify the current state of “incoherent, disconnected, and unpredictable” work visa policies. This call comes as a result of previous administrations enacting short-sighted, reactive measures in response to broadcasting scrutiny on net migration figures.

On Thursday, the IfG released a report suggesting that an annual migration plan could be presented by the prime minister and home secretary, mirroring a spending review. The plan would be documented and open to parliamentary debate and select committee examination. This strategic approach aims at ensuring that migration policies are in line with the broader government priorities and take note of evidence and economic aspects.

In the midst of preparing an immigration white paper, the government faces a tug-of-war between calls for reduced overall migration and increased visa demands from sectors like business, the NHS, universities, and social care.

The white paper has reportedly faced delays due to disagreements between the Home Office, pushing for migration restrictions, and education ministers concerning proposed student numbers.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/apr/10/uk-needs-annual-migration-plan-to-end-incoherent-policies-says-thinktank