H-1B visas

SIR, I refer to "H1-B Dilemma" (January 1). Donald Trump's endorsement of the H1-B visa program amid the debate between Elon Musk and Steve Bannon reflects a calculated yet controversial stance on immigration policy.

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While Mr Trump has consistently advocated for skilled immigration, his comments highlight potential misunderstandings about programmes he supports.

By conflating H-1B visas, designed for high-skill workers, with H2-B visas, typically used for seasonal labour in industries like hospitality, Trump's position risks being perceived as inconsistent or opportunistic. This conflation weakens the credibility of his argument and suggests a broader issue: the oversimplification of complex immigration systems for political convenience.

The H1-B program, while valuable in addressing U.S. labour shortages in fields like technology and engineering, is not without its flaws. Critics have raised valid concerns about its potential misuse, with some companies allegedly using the programme to outsource jobs or suppress wages.