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London is proof of the benefits of immigration, writes Sadiq Khan

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan: Getty Images
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan: Getty Images

London is a truly global city. Throughout history, we have always looked outwards, welcoming people from around the world. This open attitude has shaped and defined us as a city.

From music and fashion, to food, and to the businesses that power our economy, London would not be London without the migrant communities that contribute so much.

This week, I’m in Paris and Berlin to bang the drum for London, and to get the message out that — in spite of Brexit — London remains open for business, and to trade and talent. And, with intolerance and fascism on the rise on a scale we have not seen since the 1930s, I’m also pushing progressive leaders across Europe to redouble efforts to make the positive case for immigration and tolerance.

Despite all the evidence, too many politicians have been scared of saying what they really feel about immigration. Too many have been unwilling to go against the grain simply to win hearts and minds. And too many have pandered to divisive voices, rather than doing and saying what is right.

We have seen politicians rushing to embrace the politics of the lowest common denominator, trying to look “tough on immigration” despite knowing this approach pollutes public debate and holds our country back. As a result, we have failed to explain why immigration and the freedom of movement have only been good things — not just economically, but culturally and socially. We must stand up and make the positive case for immigration and the benefits it brings — before it’s too late.

Worryingly, the Government is expected to restrict Tier 2 visas to skilled jobs paying more than £30,000 a year after Brexit. This would mean businesses could struggle to fill thousands of key posts. In London, approximately 46,000 construction jobs are held by EU citizens earning less than £30,000 a year. The accommodation and food sector could suffer even more, with a quarter of the workforce being EU workers earning less than the £30,000 threshold.

Of course, we need to train Londoners to have relevant skills. And, of course, we need a well-managed and fair immigration system and secure borders. However, we also need a system that makes it easier — not harder — to bring in the people from around the world who can help grow our economy.

When people feel left behind by changes in their community, some will always look to blame “the others”, so, rather than preying on people’s fears, we must tackle the root causes of these problems, so no one gets left behind.

I will never be embarrassed to make the positive case for immigration, and I will keep arguing for a system that not only allows us to access the workforce our economy needs, but one that also allows us to benefit from the dynamism, innovation and energy that comes with having talented individuals contributing to our diverse city.