As I point out repeatedly, the debate about EU migration and free movement has two separate, but related, dimensions: \u201cfairness\u201d \u2013 who can access what benefits and when; and \u201cvolume\u201d \u2013 how many migrants come to the UK every year. So far, David Cameron has been sticking to fairness, seeking to change the EU rules on both out of work benefits such as job-seekers allowance, and in-work benefits such as tax credits.<\/p>\n
In my view, this is the right focus. EU free movement is a net benefit to the UK but also comes with challenges, in particular to certain sectors of society such as the low-paid. In order for it to stand in face of increasing pressure, governments need to be able to demonstrate to citizens that they have control over their welfare systems and that public policies to get people from welfare into work, such as tax credits, can be targeted at those who need them most. Bringing back such control will go a long way to address people\u2019s concern about immigration. There is also support in other EU countries for these changes, and it wouldn’t require EU Treaty change, so it\u2019s achievable.<\/p>\n
However, with Ukip breathing down his neck and a by-election nigh, Cameron is reportedly now thinking about going further, potentially curbing the volume of EU migrants.<\/p>\n