India has expressed concern over the proposed visa restrictions by the British government saying that they are likely to affect the profitability and competitiveness of the Indian companies. This was conveyed by Commerce minister Anand Sharma to the visiting Mayor of London David Wootton at a meeting in New Delhi today. Mr Sharma said while New Delhi appreciates that the UK may have reasons for introducing a cap on non-EU economic immigrants, there is a need to ensure that these measures do not adversely affect the growing trade and economic partnership between the two countries.

Mr Sharma also emphasized that the recent measures over student visas, including post-study work visas, taken by the UK government might make it difficult for the students to pursue education in British universities.