UK Government Clarifies Student Visas Excluded from India-UK FTA Talks

The UK clarified that student visas are excluded from the India-UK Free Trade Agreement negotiations, which will only cover temporary business mobility visas. Lord Sonny Leong emphasized the focus on business purposes during these discussions. Several peers urged the government to expedite the FTA process and consider enhancing diplomatic efforts with India, as both nations seek to strengthen their economic partnership.

The United Kingdom has clarified during a debate in the House of Lords that student visas will not be included in the ongoing India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Only temporary business mobility visas will be considered as part of these discussions. UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds recently visited New Delhi to relaunch these negotiations, prompting inquiries from cross-party peers about their scope.

Lord Sonny Leong, serving as Government Whip in the Lords and noting his personal ties to India, emphasized that the focus remains solely on business mobility visas. He stated that such visas are limited in duration and specific in purpose, benefiting UK exporters. Furthermore, he confirmed that student visas are excluded from the FTA negotiations, reinforcing the primary goal of facilitating business-related travel.

During the debate, Lord Leong addressed calls for setting a deadline to finalize the FTA. He acknowledged the urgency expressed by peers but indicated that the government prioritizes the quality of the agreement over speed. The trade relationship between India and the UK was valued at GBP 41 billion last year, supporting nearly 600,000 jobs across both nations. Lord Leong underscored the importance of reducing tariffs on goods exported by the UK, especially given that some Indian tariffs can be exceptionally high.

Several British Indian peers in Parliament, including Karan Bilimoria and Lord Sahota, voiced concerns about the urgency of finalizing the FTA, with Lord Sahota noting the potential economic benefits of a successful agreement. Others emphasized the significance of having trade envoys dedicated to major economies like India, suggesting that the UK should enhance its diplomatic efforts in the region. Baroness Verma expressed that appointing such envoys would reinforce ministerial efforts in India.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed cautious optimism regarding the FTA discussions, reflecting a willingness on both sides to advance negotiations. He conveyed a positive message from key British leaders regarding their interest in progressing the talks. As discussions continue, fostering stronger ties between the UK and India remains a key priority for both governments.

In conclusion, the UK government has explicitly stated that student visas will not be part of the ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations with India, focusing instead on temporary business mobility visas. While leaders from both nations underscore the economic significance of the FTA, there is a pressing call among British Indian peers for expedited negotiations. Enhancing trade relations and reducing tariffs are pivotal for mutual economic growth, as both countries cultivate their partnership in a rapidly globalizing market.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com