The government plans to relax work permit rules to allow more highly skilled migrants into the country.

High fliers with exceptional skills will require fewer points to qualify and new criteria will make it easier for applicants under 28 to work in the UK. The scheme will also take into account graduate partners' achievements.

From next summer, foreign nationals who have studied maths, science or engineering at a UK institution will be able to work in the UK for 12 months following graduation under the Science and Engineering Graduates scheme.

Home office minister Beverley Hughes said: "The UK is a world leader in attracting uniquely talented people – we are helping supply businesses with the skills and talent they need to thrive."