The IWA GB welcomes the decision by the Government in Britain to withdraw the racially discriminatory proposal of Visa “Bonds” which were to have come into effect from 1st November.The opposition to the introduction of visa bonds has created outrage among members of the Indian community in Britain and the Government of India.The organisations and institutions, led by the Indian Workers’ Association GB, Broad Front of Asian Organisation and the Campaign Against Racist Laws, launched an effective campaign and collected over 20,000 signatures opposing the introduction of the visa “bond” scheme.
In a press release,IWA (GB) thanked all other organisations and individuals, particularly Virendra Sharma MP for Ealing Southall for the magnificent support in opposing the £3000 Visa bond /deposits that would have been applied by the Entry Clearance Officers for visitors termed to be from six high risk countries; India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Ghana and Nigeria.
The move to withdraw the introduction recognises the enormous benefit to Britain from Foreign Investment. From official OECD figures, India entrepreneurs invested £35 billion in UK , while the UK based companies invested £20 billion in India. A net gain of £15 billion in Britain’s favour. This investment most noticeable in the motor, engineering , food and steel industry is creating jobs for people in Britain.
The Vans going round with the inflammatory slogan “ Go home or face arrest “ have also been withdrawn as a campaign, to be replaced by an equally obnoxious idea of sending texts on flawed data to legally settled British citizens.The Indian Workers Association (GB) will remain vigilant and continue to challenge discriminatory practices.
Harsev Bains
General Secretary
Indian Workers Association