Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has identified a significant opportunity in recent US immigration policy changes, stating that Canada is preparing to welcome technology sector workers affected by new American visa fees. Speaking in London on Saturday, Carney emphasized the chance to attract professionals who previously would have received H-1B visas, noting that many of these workers are in the tech sector and willing to relocate for employment opportunities. The comments come as Canada reviews its immigration strategy to potentially absorb talent displaced by the US policy shift.

The development follows US President Donald Trump's executive order imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa petitions, which took effect on September 21. The move has created immediate uncertainty for technology companies and their foreign employees, particularly affecting workers from India and China who constitute the majority of H-1B visa recipients. According to government data, Indian nationals receive over 70% of H-1B visas, with Chinese professionals also heavily represented in the program.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the new rule, stating it was designed to prevent tech companies from training foreign workers who might take jobs from Americans. The policy has caused confusion and frustration within the industry, with many young tech workers from India and China expressing concern about their career prospects in the United States. The White House later clarified that the fee applies only to new petitions filed after September 21.

Canada is not alone in seeking to capitalize on the US policy change. According to Bloomberg reports, Germany and the United Kingdom are also positioning themselves as alternative destinations for skilled workers facing new hurdles to enter the United States. Carney indicated that Canada plans to provide a clear offering to displaced workers and could integrate policies to streamline the immigration process for those affected by the US visa changes, potentially providing a significant boost to Canada's technology industry through this global competition for talent.

A major fire involving a car transporter carrying nine electric vehicles has forced the complete closure of the M5 motorway in Devon, causing significant traffic disruption during Wednesday morning's rush hour. The blaze erupted at approximately 7am between junctions 28 at Cullompton and 29 near Exeter, prompting emergency services to shut the critical transport artery in both directions. Motorists reported being trapped in standstill traffic for hours, with some forced to cancel or postpone work commitments due to the extensive delays.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the transporter was "fully involved" in fire, with five fire appliances and a water bowser deployed to battle the intense blaze. Photographs and footage from the scene showed thick black smoke billowing from the incident, with fierce orange flames engulfing both the transporter and its electric vehicle cargo. One witness reported hearing explosions during the incident, though authorities have not confirmed the cause of these sounds.

National Highways, Devon and Cornwall Police, and multiple emergency services remain on scene coordinating the response. The closure has resulted in delays of approximately 30 minutes on approaches to the affected stretch of motorway. Authorities have implemented diversion routes, with southbound traffic directed to exit at junction 28 and northbound traffic at junction 29, though police are advising motorists to avoid the area entirely due to significant traffic issues.

National Highways has not provided an estimate for when the M5 will reopen to traffic. The agency advised road users to allow extra journey time and consider rerouting or delaying travel plans. The incident highlights the growing challenges of transporting electric vehicles and the potential fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, though the exact cause of this particular fire remains under investigation by authorities.