But the MAC recommendation, if accepted, would mean this would not apply to those who come to Britain under intra-company transfers even if they fulfil the conditions.

'We do not see any justification whatsoever for withdrawing the right to settlement to immigrants on intra-company transfers,' said Kapadia.

'We believe such draconian measures will only lead to further exploitation of migrants and would deprive hardworking skilled migrants who are paying their tax and are not a burden to the public funds their due rights after spending five years in the UK.

'It will also impact employers and the overall UK economy very adversely as skilled migrants from other countries would avoid coming to the UK altogether,' he added.

Kapadia said the forum believed the MAC has 'gone beyond its scope' in making the recommendation.

The main job of MAC, which includes five leading economists, is to 'provide independent and evidence-based advice to Government on specific sectors and occupations in the labour market where shortages exist which can sensibly be filled by migration'.