HANGZHOU: Britain will pursue an immigration system that enables the government to decide who enters the country and not a points-based system that gives an automatic right to those who meet certain criteria, a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Theresa May said on Monday.

May, who has promised to tighten border controls, said on Sunday she does not favour a points-based system that screens applicants on the basis of factors such as education and skills.

"A points-based system would give foreign nationals the right to come to Britain if they meet certain criteria," the spokeswoman said.

"An immigration system that works for Britain would ensure that the right to decide who comes to the country resides with the government."