EU moves to bring in skilled foreign workers  The EU unveiled
legislation yesterday to attract skilled migrant workers from
outside Europe in an effort to compete in the contest it is
losing with the US, Canada and Australia for the brightest staff
in hi-tech industries.  The draft legislation from the European
commission offers a "blue card", modelled on the US green card,
for talented job applicants from third countries, simplifying
and speeding up the processing of residence and job permits.
The system, if it becomes law, would apply across almost all of
the EU, but Britain is unlikely to take part and Ireland and
Denmark could also exempt themselves. The proposals would enable
successful applicants to move between EU countries and jobs.
"Most highly skilled workers go to the United States, Canada and
Australia," said Jose Manuel Barroso the commission's chief.
"Highly skilled people from all over the world are welcome in
the EU."  Immigration is one of the most controversial subjects
across Europe, and