GrahamD85 wrote:That's what I'm thinking. They can't say they want those remaining here to integrate and not be a burden on the tax payer but then refuse them because they have a good job, pay taxes and speak English.
Thinking about it, the examples in the consultation, from what I remember, were all citizens/those settled bringing in partners or family from outside the UK. Saying that though I do remember the document mentioning those choosing to remain in.the UK frequently too. I still think it must be unlawful for those en route to have to abide to new rules with only a few months notice.
I'm emailing my local MP tomorrow to make sure he's aware of this consultation and he effect it could have on our city. It probably won't make a difference but its good to make them aware of these issues.
I think it's probably an error/lack of understanding within the document. There's a certain logic in only allowing the sponsor's money to count for external visa applications (though I do think the applicant's savings should be allowed to), and I think that's the real intention, albeit poorly phrased and not made clear. But within the country that's unworkable, and the consequences for a failed in-country application are more traumatic than a failed visa.
In many couples, the sponsor may have quit their job or only work part time in order to look after kids, while the applicant is working - I can't see them justifying refusing people like that, and tearing apart present and settled families over it. It's actually unthinkable that they would. And what about where the sponsor is disabled and can't work? It also punishes the most vulnerable.
Of course, we don't know yet what the income requirement will be. MigrationWatchUK, who are pretty right-wing, have suggested it be a combined salary equal to one full-time minimum wage job, plus 10% for each dependent, which isn't too bad (£11,000 a year for a couple), though the government may go a little higher than that. But again, it would be unfair if they considered it purely on London wages/costs of living ... what about those in the north?
Write to your MP, maybe write to the Lib Dems (their leader has a foreign wife!), and answer the consultation, because this is a crucial point which mustn't be missed.