World Immigration News

What are the challenges facing the government's immigration plan?

Release Date: 2025-05-13
Media: BBC
Summary: Over the past 15 years, successive UK governments have pledged to reduce immigration, yet net migration has remained high. In the year to June 2023, net migration peaked at a record 906,000 before falling to 728,000 in 2024. Although projections suggest it may decline to around 315,000 by the end of the current Parliament, this would still be higher than most years in the past decade.

Most migrants come to the UK to study or work, with a significant number entering the health and social care sector. However, recent restrictions have led to a sharp decline in care-related visa applications. The sector still faces major staff shortages, and limiting overseas recruitment could worsen the problem, as domestic workers are deterred by low wages. Addressing this would require raising pay, which could lead to increased public spending and possibly higher taxes.

The economic impact of immigration is debated. While it generally boosts overall GDP, its effect on GDP per capita — a government priority — is uncertain. Immigration also places pressure on housing and public services. Meanwhile, international students significantly contribute to net migration and are vital to university finances, which could suffer if numbers decline.

The government says it still welcomes skilled migrants but wants to reduce reliance on cheap foreign labour. Training domestic workers — especially in engineering and technical fields — would require greater investment. With adult education funding having fallen sharply since 2010, many industries argue they still need migrant workers to remain competitive and grow.

Overall, the government’s plan to cut immigration faces major challenges, as it intersects with critical issues in healthcare, education, workforce development, and public finance.
Tags: UK

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