Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP, today voiced his support for ‘balanced migration’, following the launch of a cross-party parliamentary group calling for a sustainable immigration policy.
Mr Turner believes the number of migrants coming to the UK from outside the European Union should be balanced to match the number leaving. Currently, the Home Office estimate there to be a net inflow to the UK of around 180,000 non-EU migrants every year, with a further 25,000 entering the country illegally. At the current level, government statistics estimate that by 2031, seven million more people will come to live in the UK, which is the equivalent of building of seven new cities, each the size of Birmingham. This pattern cannot continue indefinitely.
Mr Turner said:
“Although many migrants to this country have made a valuable contribution to our communities and the economy, some are completely uncontrolled and unemployed. The number of migrants that are entering the UK is clearly unsustainable. I believe there are many good reasons why we should adopt balanced migration. It will reduce the demand for housing, much of which is being built to accommodate the swelling migrant population. It will alleviate much of the pressure on London and the south east of England, which has seen the biggest population increases, with two out of three migrants settling in the area. Balanced migration would also relieve a large burden on the taxpayer, who currently foots the bill for supporting unemployed migrants. I believe balanced migration is an excellent idea and I welcome the proposals of the cross-party parliamentary group. I hope that all sides can agree on a more sustainable immigration policy.”
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