I’m backing a call from Universities UK for a new visa to enable international students to gain work experience in the UK for up to two years after graduation.

International students contribute billions of pounds to the UK economy every year – as much as £160 million to Sheffield alone– and create thousands of jobs in towns and cities across the country.

But we must do better. UK recruitment has flat lined, while the US, Canada and Australia have increased international student numbers by around 20% over the last few years.

Offering post study work opportunities has been central to their success. We need to catch up and also give businesses the chance to benefit from the talents of our international graduates.

A new approach to post-study work will boost student recruitment and create more local jobs.