Commenting on the Migration Advisory Committee's latest report, ACE chief executive Hannah Vickers, said:

“In expanding the Tier 2 visa route to include more skills, and in reducing the salary threshold from £30k to £25.6k, the Committee has listened to the considered views of ACE and others and has created a flexible system that meets the needs of the construction industry.

“These recommendations will give the sector the breathing space to modernise and expand its own workforce, crucial if the industry is to deliver an expanded public investment programme, including ambitious new housing targets and major infrastructure investments, which we expect to be announced at the Budget in March.

“We look forward to the Government implementing these recommendations and working collaboratively address the skills challenges our industry faces. Migrant workers have long played a key role in the UK’s construction sector and the MAC’s recommendations will ensure that employers will continue to benefit from the vital skills and experience they provide.”