UK population estimate scaled back as deaths set to overtake births

The UK population will continue to tilt toward older age groups, according to the latest projection
The UK population will continue to tilt toward older age groups, according to the latest projection
ALAMY

Immigration will be the only driver of population growth from 2030 onwards, according to official projections.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that fewer births and lower-than-expected life expectancy would end “natural” population growth.

By 2025 there will be more deaths than births, leaving net migration as the only factor that raises the number of people living in the UK.

James Robards, from the ONS, said analysts had revised their assumptions in the light of new data on fertility and mortality. “Given a higher number of deaths and fewer births are projected, net international migration is expected to play an increasing role in population growth,” he said.

Overall, millions fewer people will be living in the UK by 2045 than expected, according to the