TORY plans to make firms report the number of foreign workers they employ have been labelled 'ill-conceived' by one of the town's top businessmen.

Following a rethink, the Government has said companies will not be obliged to 'list or name' foreign workers they employ but confirmed they will be made to 'report their numbers' in a move ministers believe could identify skills gaps.

Warrington South MP David Mowat is backing the Government's stance and believes it will deliver a boost for British workers.

He said: "The public have sent a very clear message that they want to get net migration back to sustainable levels.

"That means helping to build confidence in our immigration system and relieving pressure on our schools, hospitals and infrastructure.

"Our immigration system must continue to attract the brightest and the best.

"We won't be requiring companies to name overseas workers but we do want to encourage all companies to invest in training and supporting British workers.

"Immigration has, on balance, been good for this country – it has boosted our economy and enhanced our culture but net migration at current levels is not in Britain's interests.

"Businesses and universities now have the opportunity to engage with this consultation to help us get these reforms right."

However, Paul Taylor, who is managing director of Taylor Business Park and vice chairman of the Cheshire Business Leaders group, was quick to criticise the plans.

He said: "Personally, I think that it's an ill-conceived idea.

"They say the reason for the survey is to identify skill gaps in the workforce but the same data could be gathered by simply asking the employers where those gaps are.

"Employers are all fully aware of where those gaps are. Immigration has little to do with our skills shortage.

"The issue is with training, guiding and inspiring students to study subjects and vocational skills that will give them jobs at the end of their course, rather than the status quo where they're taught anything just to make sure they in employment, education or training until they're at least 19.

"After that they're on their own and at the mercy of the job centre."