UK immigration hits all-time record – Analysis

Net migration to the United Kingdom reached a record high in 2022 and has continued to rise, according to the UK’s Office of National Statistics (ONS). These unexpected figures put pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who has emphasized the need to reduce immigration ahead of an anticipated general election.

The ONS data, released on Thursday, shows that the estimated net migration for 2022 was 745,000, surpassing previous estimates by 139,000. Additionally, the net migration total up to June 2023 was 672,000, indicating an increase of about 65,000 from the previous year.

Sunak’s office spokesperson argued that the ONS totals are “far too high.” These figures pose a challenge to the government’s immigration and asylum pledges, as the court recently deemed Sunak’s “Stop the Boats” policy, which involved deporting illegal arrivals to Rwanda, as unlawful.

Sunak has justified his immigration policies by citing voter concerns about the strain on resources like housing. The ONS revealed that the majority of immigrants to the UK now come from non-EU countries, as the UK severed ties with the EU in 2020. Many of these migrants are filling work shortages, particularly in the healthcare sector. The data also highlighted high levels of non-EU students coming to the UK.

Sunak’s former Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, criticized the record migration statistics, expressing that they contradict the British public’s desire to control and reduce migration. Braverman also argued that Brexit provided the means to address the issue.

Although the timing of the next general election is unknown, immigration is expected to be a significant topic in the campaign. UK law mandates that the election must occur before January 28, 2025.

Source: RT news: UK immigration hits all-time record