‘Arbitrary’ election pledges to cut UK migration will worsen worker shortages

Firms that employ millions in manufacturing, hospitality and construction already struggling to plugs gaps after Brexit

The battle between the Conservatives and Labour to show they are tough on migration risks damaging sectors that are vital to the economy, industry figures have warned.

Rishi Sunak unveiled a Conservative pledge to cap visas awarded to migrant workers on Monday, promising bold action to reduce immigration" amid pressure from a Reform party reinvigorated by the return of Nigel Farage as leader.