Amid the recent surge of far-right violence in England and Northern Ireland, the debate around immigration and its impact on Britain’s economy and society has intensified. While public concern over legal and irregular migration is on the rise, academic research suggests a disconnect between perception and reality.
- Concern about immigration is growing but divided:
- UK voters’ worry about immigration has returned to levels last seen in 2016, a critical year marked by the Brexit referendum and the European migration crisis triggered by the conflict in Syria.
- Notably, Conservative and Labour voters show divergent concerns for the first time, reflecting shifts in political focus and messaging.
- Irregular migration is a fraction of total immigration:
- Despite recent attention on small boat crossings, only a small percentage of migrants enter the UK this way compared to those using organized visa routes.
- The majority of migrants pay for visas to work or study under the post-Brexit points-based system, highlighting the vital role legal migrants play in various sectors of the economy.
- Immigrants’ impact on crime rates:
- While rioters attribute a rise in violent crime to increased migration, official statistics reveal a significant decline in violent crime rates.
- Academic studies across different countries have failed to establish a link between immigration and higher crime rates, suggesting immigrants commit crimes at similar rates to native populations.
- Economic impact of immigration:
- Increased migration contributes to economic growth, benefiting the overall economy. However, its effect on GDP per capita depends on factors such as the skill levels of migrants.
- Contrary to common belief, studies show that immigration has marginal effects on wages and employment rates among native workers, debunking the myth that cutting immigration would lead to higher wages.
- The role of immigrants in the NHS:
- Despite the belief that immigration strains the NHS, data indicates that new arrivals actually contribute more to the health system than they consume.
- Immigrants play a crucial role in filling staffing shortages within the NHS, with a significant percentage of doctors and nurses in England coming from abroad.
In conclusion, the discourse surrounding immigration in the UK is complex, often influenced by misinformation and misconceptions. While public concern is mounting, it is crucial to consider evidence-based research that sheds light on the actual impacts of immigration on society and the economy. Embracing a more nuanced understanding of immigration is essential to foster inclusive and informed discussions on this critical issue.
