British Prime Minister, David Cameron leaves number 10 Downing street. EPA/FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA
Among other initiatives, Cameron wants to deny EU migrants, of whom Poles are the largest group, a range of welfare perks during their first four years in the UK, with immigration continuing to swell from the continent.
He indicated that he is prepared to spearhead Britain's exit from the EU, if European leaders do not accept some of the government's proposals.
''Nothing and I mean nothing is ruled out," he said.
“So I say to our friends in Europe. It’s time we talked about this properly. And a conversation cannot begin with the word 'no'.''
However, Cameron argued that ''the entire European Union is built on a gift for compromise, for finding ways round difficult corners, for accepting that sometimes we have to avoid making the perfect the enemy of the good.
“A reformed EU is in the interests not only of Britain, but of every Member State.”
Cameron said that ''it is not wrong to express concern about the scale of people coming into the country.
"People have understandably become frustrated. It boils down to one word: control."
Assurances for recent immigrants
Meanwhile, Cameron criticised the UK Independence Party's (UKIP) suggestions that some immigrants should be repatriated.
His remarks followed UKIP member Mark Reckless's comments concerning the 'Polish plumber' who has become ubiquitous since Poland joined the EU in 2004.
''We must never give in to those who would throw away our values, with the appalling prospect of repatriating migrants who are here totally legally and have lived here for years,'' Cameron said.
“We are Great Britain because of immigration, not in spite of it,'' he reflected.
Cameron also made a nod to contributions made by Poles and Czechs to the Allied victory in World War II.
"We will never forget the Polish and Czech pilots who helped save this country in its hour of need and the Poles who went on to settle here, help build post war Britain and indeed contribute so much to our country today,'' he said. (nh)