New report reveals that favourable public opinion towards immigration could have significant impact on immigration policy in the UK

New report reveals that in the past 10 years, public opinion has warmed to immigration which could lead to changes in immigration policy in the UK. A new report published by Professor Robert Ford from the University of Manchester and Marley Morris written for the Institute of Public Policy Research reveals that public attitudes towards immigration have warmed in recent years. This change of attitude could have a real impact on the politics of immigration in the UK. The evidence suggests that there is now more scope for a welcoming, flexible, and fair migration system than many realise. Based on the findings presented in this report, the researchers argue that politicians should pay attention to this shift of opinion when making propositions regarding immigration policy in the UK. The report shows that, following Brexit, concerns over the free movement of people within the EU have taken a back-seat and public attention to the issue of immigration has fallen sharply. In 2022, only 9% of the public saw immigration as a top priority compared to 44% in 2015.