Home Secretary Priti Patel has launched a points-based immigration system.

It’s hoped it will open up the UK to the “brightest and best” people from around the world.

The new system will “end free movement, re-assert control over our borders and restore public trust”, claims Ms Patel.

It will assign points for specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions.

Visas will only be awarded to those who gain enough points.

She said the government has “listened to the clear message from the 2016 referendum and the 2019 General Election and will end the reliance on cheap, low-skilled labour coming into the country”.

It’s believed the system will reduce the overall levels of migration and tighten security.

The new single global system will treat EU and non-EU citizens equally.

It will give top priority to those with the highest skills and the greatest talents, including scientists, engineers and academics.

Ms Patel said: “Today is a historic moment for the whole country.

“We’re ending free movement, taking back control of our borders and delivering on the people’s priorities by introducing a new UK points-based immigration system, which will bring overall migration numbers down.

“We will attract the brightest and the best from around the globe, boosting the economy and our communities, and unleash this country’s full potential.”