The Mayor of London has met with universities in the capital over fears Brexit could stop people coming to work in higher education.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan met with 18 university representatives yesterday over concerns the Government’s immigration proposals could fail to attract researchers and teaching staff into the education sector.

Mr Khan believes the Government’s proposed £30,000 minimum salary threshold for skilled workers being allowed to work in the UK is too high and could damage the economy.

 He said: “Our universities are among the very best in the world. They play a crucial role in enhancing London’s reputation as a global centre for business, research and innovation.

“We have an enviable track record in attracting international students and academic talent, but this has been put under threat by the Government’s handling of the Brexit process and the uncertainty this has created.

“As such, I’m urging ministers to introduce supportive policies to protect these important institutions, including flexible and clear post-study work opportunities for international students.”

Mr Khan said the Government also must rule out a no-deal Brexit and give the public a final vote on the outcome.

In 2017 more than 110,000 international students studied in London with London and Partners – a promotions agency for tourism and jobs in the capital – have estimate this directly contributed £3.4 billion to the economy and supported 40,000 jobs.

Alice Gast, the president of Imperial College London, who helped organise the event, said: “London is a global centre for discovery and innovation and our universities should be central to Brexit negotiations.

“The free flow of academic and student talent is key to London’s economic success.”