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

  1. A secondary school teacher talking with her sixth form students in class.

    A system that empowers: The future of professional development

    Our education system faces a significant and urgent challenge: ensuring equitable access to an excellent education in the context of acute budget pressures.
  2. The Scottish parlimant is a white modernist building

    Programme for Government 2025/26: An IPPR Scotland briefing

    On 6 March, first minister John Swinney will announce his Programme for Government for 2025/26. He will highlight his four ‘core priorities’ of eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling climate change, and ensuring high…

  3. The health mandate: The voters' verdict on government intervention

    The nation’s health is now a top-tier political issue.