UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing a cabinet revolt over plans to scrap a graduate visa scheme for overseas students.

The scheme allows international students to work in the UK post-graduation.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, and Foreign Minister David Cameron are among the dissenting ministers.

Ministers are concerned about the potential negative impacts on universities and businesses.

Gillian Keegan is particularly opposed to measures that could harm the education sector and lead to a loss of overseas talent.

University leaders stress the benefits of international students for diversity, the economy, and society.

The move could jeopardize the government's levelling up agenda.

The public values international students and opposes restrictions, with no evidence of abuse found by the Migration Advisory Committee.

Pressure is mounting from potential party leadership contenders to maintain or increase international student numbers.