News from the EU: Tightening the Perimeter of Fortress Europe

Some — myself included — point to the successes of the European Union (EU) in permiting internal migration within the member nations.  But do not forget that the outer perimeters of the EU are just as tough as ever on immigration.  Indeed, the BBC reports that proposals to cut the time tourists from outside the European Union can stay in the UK from six months to three are expected to be announced by ministers this week. The move is among measures aimed at further tightening the visa system. A deposit of at least £1,000 to be paid by families who want relatives to visit Britain will also be introduced. Meanwhile, the Home Office of the UK has defended the payment of thousands of pounds to failed asylum seekers to persuade them to return to their home countries.

KJ