[London, 16/11/23] According to the European Social Survey, the majority of the British public now holds positive views on the impact of immigration in the UK. Despite the political rhetoric surrounding the issue, British attitudes have undergone a significant shift in the past two decades, becoming more favourable after 2016. This change is reflected in both the economic and cultural perceptions of immigration.

Immigration is Positive for the Economy

The survey revealed that most respondents ranked immigration as positive for the UK economy, enriching the country's cultural life and making it a better place to live. The poll showed that 59 per cent considered immigration beneficial for the economy, 58 per cent believed it enriched cultural life, and 56 per cent felt it improved the overall living conditions in the country.

Shift in Perception

Only 17 per cent of people viewed immigration as economically beneficial in 2002. Another 33 per cent saw it as culturally enriching, and 20 per cent believed immigration made the country a better place to live.

However, a survey conducted in 2016 revealed a significant shift in public attitudes, with 44 per cent now perceiving economic benefits, 46 per cent considering cultural enrichment, and 39 per cent believing it improves the UK. This suggests that public sentiment towards immigration is more positive than what politicians assume, despite their focus on reducing immigration.

Plans to Bring Down Migration Numbers

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged in May to reduce migration numbers following criticism from Conservative backbench MPs. Official figures for 2022 revealed record-high overall migration, prompting concern. A survey conducted in 2002 showed less than 10 per cent of respondents believed the UK should admit "many" immigrants from different races or ethnic groups.

Reduced Opposition

However, by 2022, this number had risen to 34 per cent. The proportion of respondents opposing any immigrants in this category entering the UK decreased from 15 per cent to 3 per cent during the same period. There has been a notable rise in the number of Labour and Conservative supporters who hold positive views on immigration, with a more significant shift observed among Labour voters.

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