Newly released files show senior ministers urged Prime Minister Tony Blair to postpone granting employment rights to eastern European workers during the 2004 EU expansion.
At that time, Foreign Secretary Jack Straw emphasized the UK's unique approach, as Britain was set to allow workers from EU countries like Poland to work immediately.
Concerns were raised about effects on social housing, particularly in London, with deputy PM John Prescott expressing worries over potential overcrowding.
Home Secretary David Blunkett countered, arguing the UK economy needed the productivity boost from new workers.
The workers registration scheme was implemented, requiring new arrivals to register and pay a fee, aiming to maintain control over immigration numbers.
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