Keir Starmer has been cautioned that the continuous emphasis on migration as a crisis, despite a decline, has led most voters to believe it is on the rise. New data set to be released today is anticipated to show a decrease in net migration to levels before Brexit. However, the prevailing public perception is contrary, with concerns that the constant portrayal of immigration issues as “out of control” could mislead the public.
According to a survey by Ipsos/British Future Immigration Attitudes Tracker, 56% of the population mistakenly believes that net migration increased last year. In reality, the figures for 2024 show a significant decrease, more than halving from 848,000 to 345,000, after reaching a peak of 944,000 in 2023.
Commenting on the situation, Sunder Katwala, the director of the British Future think tank, highlighted that while net migration is declining and approaching pre-Brexit levels around 300,000, the political discourse has not adjusted accordingly. He warned against the continual competition among politicians to further reduce immigration numbers as it may exacerbate the public’s perception of a lack of control over asylum and immigration issues.
The study also revealed a misconception regarding the proportion of asylum seekers in total immigration figures. Despite the actual percentage being around 14% in the year up to June, most people believe it accounts for a third of all immigration.
While the majority of individuals maintain balanced views on immigration, there has been an increase in those who see no benefits from immigration, rising from 7% in 2021 to 16%. A significant portion of the population wishes to maintain current immigration levels, while 41% prefer a substantial decrease, and 15% support an increase.
Moreover, the report emphasizes the need for a transparent discussion on the desired levels of immigration, managing associated pressures, and maximizing the benefits for the UK. Gideon Skinner, senior director of UK Politics at Ipsos, noted a growing public concern over immigration, driven by dissatisfaction with government handling, particularly regarding issues like small boats crossing the Channel.
The report calls for an expansion of the UK-France asylum deal to address Channel crossings, phasing out asylum hotels by next year, expediting decision-making processes, and establishing credible settlement pathways. It also advocates for a nuanced approach to the immigration debate, separating legitimate concerns from prejudice.
