A new consensus? How public opinion has warmed to immigration
Article
Public attitudes to immigration have warmed considerably in recent years. This paper – drawing on new analysis of attitudes data, including the British Election Study and the Ipsos immigration tracker – explores how views have changed and what this means for the current politics of immigration.
The evidence suggests there is now more scope for a welcoming, flexible, and fair migration system than many realise. Over the past decade, the public has become strikingly more positive about immigration across a range of indicators.
The public favour an immigration system which is well-managed, recognises contribution, and exercises compassion. There is also broad support for a compassionate approach to refugees.
In this paper, we therefore argue that there is now scope for a progressive narrative on immigration policy, and put forward an approach according to the principle of ‘rules-based openness’.
Related items
It's the cost of living, stupid: Why progressives lose and win
UK households are impatient for change. Trust in our political system is low and that’s reflected in scepticism across the board that government can make things better.Getting the child poverty strategy we need: A co-produced agenda for change
The UK government has a time-limited opportunity to make a decisive difference to child poverty in its upcoming strategy.Not yet settled? Assessing the government’s new policy on indefinite leave to remain
This month’s white paper represented the most significant shake-up in immigration policy since Brexit.