The British-China trade and tourism relations have been damaged by the UK™s harsh visa regulations, according to the chief executive of British Airways’ parent company.
Willie Walsh, chief executive of International Airlines Group, says the UK visa regime coupled with the government™s anti-immigration policy makes foreign businessmen and visitors feel unwelcome.
Walsh called for a simplification of Britain™s visa service for the Chinese who are eyeing up multi-billion pound investment deals in the UK this year; he said the potential of China-UK trade was “significantly behind”.
The UK government has stepped up its border controls since reports found many flaws at visa checkpoints for visitors during the London 2012 Olympics. This has made foreigners feel œthat the UK doesn’t want to see Chinese tourists or business,” Walsh said.
He said the government needs to œlook more closely at the visa issue” if they want a real opportunity to do business with China.
Visa fees for Britain alone are more expensive by £24 per person than it is for a visa to visit the 26 EU countries under the Schengen visa program.
The UK government has spurred its anti-immigration policy since July, with posters urging migrants to “go home or face arrest”.
GVN/MOL/HE
Copyright: Press TV