20230609-KPMG_Global-United_Kingdom_–_Net_Migration_Hits_Record_Levels_3页_289kb

报告摘要

Summary: UK Immigration and Population Data Analysis

Data Highlights

According to data released by the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) on May 25, 2023, the long-term international migration to the UK resulted in a net increase of 606,000 people to the population in 2022. This represents an increase of 164,000 compared to the 2021 total but is slightly below predictions. In 2022, approximately 1.2 million immigrants arrived, while 557,000 left.

The nationality breakdown of arrivals in 2022 showed that the majority were non-EU nationals (925,000), followed by EU nationals and British nationals.

Inclusion of Asylum Seekers

This data marks the first time that asylum seekers are included in the migration estimates, with 76,000 applications received in 2022 contributing to the figures.

Policy Changes Announced

On the same day as the ONS data release, the UK government announced changes to the immigration rules for international students to reduce net migration. Among these changes, the Home Secretary specified that only postgraduate research students can be accompanied by dependants.

Influence of Events

Notable events like the war in Ukraine (contributing about 114,000 arrivals) and the situation in Hong Kong (52,000 arrivals) also influenced the high levels of immigration.

Data Caveats

It should be noted that the ONS described these estimates as "provisional, experimental, and have a degree of uncertainty" due to the methodology used.

Political Context

Government rhetoric around reducing net migration to "tens of thousands" has increased, creating political pressure to address claims of "migration being out of control." Businesses are advised to monitor these policy developments as they could affect their ability to recruit and retain global talent.

Government Actions

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that although migration is “not out of control,” the figures are still "too high." However, measures such as visa tightening might help reduce net migration over time.

Reduction in Migration Ambition?

Recent government pronouncements and commitments have led to reduced targets for net migration. Businesses need to stay informed about these shifts and their implications on workforce planning.