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What is the Migration Advisory Committee?

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) advises the government on migration issues. It is a non-statutory, non-time-limited, non-departmental public body, sponsored by the UK Border Agency of the Home Office.

Terms of reference

The MAC provides independent, evidence-based advice to government on specific sectors and occupations in the labour market where shortages exist which can sensibly be filled by migration. The government may, from time to time, ask the MAC to advise on other matters relating to migration.

Membership

The MAC is made up of a chair and four other independent economists, who have been appointed under rules relating to public appointments laid down by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA). Additionally, the Commission for Employment and Skills and the UK Border Agency are represented on the committee. You can find out more about the MAC's membership on the Members' biographies page.

The MAC is supported by a secretariat made up of economists, policy and administrative staff.

Commissioning and reporting

The government agrees an annual work plan with the MAC. The MAC's current work plan, which you can download from the right side of this page, sets out what the MAC will deliver and when.

The MAC submits its reports to the government. These reports are published on this website and elsewhere as appropriate.

MAC meetings

The committee meets at least quarterly, and more frequently as required. Minutes of these meetings appear on the website as soon as practicable after each meeting.

Consultation

The MAC is keen to work transparently, and consults with stakeholders as widely as practicable. It has set up a stakeholder panel, made up of representatives of its major stakeholders, and hosts regular forum discussions when it invites a wider group of stakeholders. It also works closely with the Commission for Employment and Skills.

Research

The MAC commissions research as it sees fit, within a set budget. Its research programme contains more information.

Code of conduct

Committee members work to a code of conduct.

See also

Related documents

Internet links

Contact

More contacts