Blogs

We publish blogs that draw on data and research, and through them we inform debate, spark discussion, and explore the wider implications of current developments.

Analysis, Commentary and Research Updates​

Explore our latest publications on immigration and asylum policies. Stay informed with well-researched insights.

The United Kingdom’s Points Based System

Summary The UK already has a Points Based System (PBS) but it has failed to reduce, or even control, immigration. It needs reinforcement, not disruptive change. The Australian system operates entirely differently – its main purpose is to increase, not to reduce, immigration. The UK Experience A PBS was introduced

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Immigration Implications Of Indicative Votes

Summary Parliament are conducting further indicative votes today. The immigration implications of the four options are outlined below. As long as the UK leaves the EU and EEA it should be able to assert sovereign control over immigration although pressure for concessions might arise in future trade negotiations. (see our paper).

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How Much Control Do Member States Have Over Free Movement?

Summary The suggestion that Belgium has shown that inflows of EU citizens can be controlled despite free movement is simply wrong. While EU law makes provision for certain restrictions on entry and stay, the scope is limited and both technical and practical issues severely restrict its application in practice. Context

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Immigration And The Irish Border In The Event Of A No Deal Brexit

The government has consistently said that it will do everything in its power to avoid a hardening of the Irish border whatever the circumstances (although it has also been argued that, in the event of a no deal Brexit, a ‘hard border would be inevitable’). The government said in December 2018 that

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