…By Joseph Benjamin for TDPel Media.
Grant Shapps, a cabinet minister, has underscored the significance of the United Kingdom’s control over immigration policy following Brexit, as there is speculation that net migration figures could reach an unprecedented level of up to one million.
Reports indicate that government officials are prepared for official figures, to be released later in May, to reveal a net migration range between 650,000 and 997,000.
This would surpass the previous peak of 504,000 recorded in the year leading up to June 2022, exerting pressure on Mr. Sunak regarding the government’s commitment to reducing migration numbers.
The Impact of Ukrainian and Hong Kong Arrivals:
When questioned about these figures, Grant Shapps stated that the inclusion of arrivals from Ukraine and Hong Kong may have contributed around 300,000 individuals to the UK’s migration statistics.
During an interview on the Sophy Ridge On Sunday program on Sky News, he mentioned that the country has shown compassion by welcoming Ukrainian refugees and British nationals from Hong Kong, emphasizing that these two groups alone account for over 300,000 individuals.
He also acknowledged the presence of people from Syria and other countries, expressing pride in the country’s humanitarian efforts.
Brexit and Control Over Immigration Policy:
Grant Shapps argued that Brexit has granted the UK the ability to exercise “control” over its immigration policies.
As he faced repeated inquiries about whether the government has become more relaxed about immigration, Shapps highlighted the advantages of Brexit, stating that it allows the country to determine who should enter based on its own rules and policies.’
He also mentioned the Migration Advisory Committee, which identifies skill shortages in different sectors and enables the government to seek individuals to address those specific needs.
Shapps emphasized the importance of bringing people to the UK in accordance with established rules and policies.
Analysis:
Grant Shapps’ remarks reflect the ongoing debate and concerns surrounding immigration in post-Brexit Britain.
With predictions of record-high net migration figures, there is growing pressure on the government to address its previous commitment to reducing migration numbers.
Shapps attempts to shift the focus by highlighting the contribution of Ukrainian and Hong Kong arrivals, portraying the UK as a country with a generous and compassionate approach to those in need.
By emphasizing control over immigration policies, he aims to present Brexit as an opportunity for the UK to tailor its workforce to specific sectors and prioritize the entry of individuals who align with its rules and policies.
While Shapps asserts that the government should be proud of its immigration record, he also emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal pathways for entry.
This reflects the government’s stance on distinguishing between legal and illegal immigration, asserting that the UK welcomes those who abide by its rules.
The upcoming publication of migration figures by the Office for National Statistics will likely fuel further discussions and debates on immigration policy in the UK, as policymakers and the public assess the implications of these figures on the country’s socio-economic landscape.