Fashion Roundtable Submit Evidence on the Shortage Occupation List

Fashion Roundtable have submitted evidence to the Migration Advisory Committee in response to the open consultation on the Shortage Occupation List - the new points-based immigration system, applying to EU and EEA workers coming in the UK starting 1 January 2020.

The impact of Brexit and COVID-19 has constrained free movement in the EU, magnifying the difficulties in the UK labour market. The fashion industry is integral to the UK economy; in 2019, the UK fashion manufacturing and retail businesses generated approximately £83.9 billion annual turnover. To support the fashion industry, the new points-based immigration system must create an accommodating environment to welcome opportunities for further development in the fashion industry. Hence, this evidence advocates for better-informed decisions in regards to the inclusion of fashion occupations on the Shortage Occupation List.

In this response, Fashion Roundtable submits evidence received from the fashion industry between 1-22 June 2020 to advocate for textiles, garment, footwear and other fashion occupations on the Shortage Occupation List, as a result to the call for evidence launched by the Migration Advisory Committee.