Gates Supports Immigration Reform

Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, the world’s richest man, said on Tuesday the United States should reform its immigration laws and give more flexibility to higher-skilled foreign workers.

Speaking at a conference in Mexico, the birthplace of millions of immigrants to the United States, Gates said reforms "would be helpful so we are predictable, so we are clear."

"I’m a big believer that as much as possible–and there’s obviously political limitations–freedom of migration is a good thing," Gates told reporters.

Visiting Mexico last week, U.S. President George W. Bush reiterated his support for an overhaul of immigration laws that would include a temporary guest worker program.

Mexicans make up more than half of the estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants in the United States. Mexico is upset at U.S. plans to build a security fence along parts of the border to curb illegal crossings. Click here.

bh