Research

Migration Watch approaches our research output carefully and diligently; while we have a proven track record of getting it right on the issue, we know how sensitive the topic is and ensure we provide neutral, non-partisan and numbers-based analysis. On that basis, we source our numbers from officially published statistics reports, most usually the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the National Audit Office (NAO), the Home Office (HO), and other arms of His Majesty’s Government. 
 
Where needed, we make projections guided by statistical inference and modelling guided by one of our co-founders, Dr David Coleman, Emeritus Professor of Demographics at the University of Oxford. We place the highest possible premium on numbers-based analysis, and ensure and encourage a calm and level-headed approach to the facts concerning this paramount issue. 

The Points Based System in Australia – Appropriate for the UK?

1. Summary 1.1 The government has promised to introduce an Australian-points based immigration system after Brexit. This paper looks at the Australian system in detail and asks the question of whether it is appropriate for the UK. Importantly, it includes an annual cap on permanent immigration which covers skilled workers:

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The Points Based System in Australia – Appropriate for the UK?

1. Summary 1.1 The government has promised to introduce an Australian-points based immigration system after Brexit. This paper looks at the Australian system in detail and asks the question of whether it is appropriate for the UK. Importantly, it includes an annual cap on permanent immigration which covers skilled workers:

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EU Immigration

1. Under the free movement rules of the European Union, EU citizens possess the right to enter and reside in the UK without the need to obtain a visa (and British citizens currently have the right to move to other EU states in a similar manner). EU citizens do not

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Immigration and Economics

Evidence of a fiscal cost 1. Estimating the impact of immigration on the Exchequer is a complex matter in practice. There are few precise statistics available to the public so results very much depend on the assumptions made by researchers who have to estimate . what is paid in direct

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Jobs and Welfare

Economic characteristics of migrants to the UK 1. Research by Migration Watch UK has shown significant differences in the economic profiles of migrants from different countries (our paper: ‘Economic characteristics of migrants in the UK in 2014’). For example, migrants from Western European countries had higher wages and lower rates

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Pressure on Healthcare, Schools, Roads and Trains

The NHS Education Social housing Transport / Environment View of the public Pressure on healthcare, schools, roads and trains – full briefing 1. Between 2001 and 2016, the UK population rose by a total of 6.6 million. More than 80% of this increase was the result of immigration (see our paper).

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Explore Further

Migration Watch UK Media photo of a crowd overlooking the Thames.

Media

Watch our most recent broadcast appearances, interviews, and briefings, where we comment on immigration, population growth, and related policy issues. These videos offer timely, expert insight and considered responses to current developments in the public and political debate.

Migration Watch Newsletter image of British troops and a helicopter in a field training.

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.

Migration Watch Statistics

Statistics

Migration Watch UK monitors and analyses official immigration and population statistics. We chart trends, report key developments, and provide clear, accessible insights to help understand migration and its impact on the UK.