UK population set to rise by nearly 5 million due to migration surge
- The UK population is projected to grow to 72.5 million by 2032, driven largely by net migration.
- Net migration is expected to account for a 4.9 million increase, with births and deaths projected to equal each other.
- The findings highlight the need for discussions about immigration policy and its implications for the economy and public services.
In the United Kingdom, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released projections indicating that the nation's population is expected to reach 72.5 million by mid-2032, up from 67.6 million in mid-2022. This growth of almost five million people over the decade is primarily attributed to net migration, which is projected to total 4.9 million. The data from ONS suggests that natural population change, reflecting the balance of births and deaths, will hover around zero, with an equal number of births and deaths forecasted to occur in the coming years. James Robards, head of population and household projections at the ONS, highlighted migration as the main driver of growth during this period. As detailed in the projections, England is expected to see a more rapid population increase compared to other UK nations, with a projected growth rate of 7.8 percent. Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are forecasted to experience growth rates of 5.9 percent, 4.4 percent, and 2.1 percent, respectively. Furthermore, the ONS has extended its projections beyond 2032, anticipating that the total UK population will grow by 8.9 million over the 25 years leading up to 2047. The continued growth trend is influenced by an ageing population, with the number of residents over the age of 85 expected to nearly double to 3.3 million by 2047 due to the longevity of life and the ageing baby boomer generation. While the figures have spurred debate about the impact of migration on society and resources, the government emphasizes the economic benefits associated with a growing workforce and larger working-age population. However, critics express concern over the burden on infrastructure and public services, pointing out that skyrocketing net migration rates might compromise the quality of life. Various political figures, including shadow home secretary Chris Philp, have called for measures to control immigration levels, arguing that a legally binding cap on visas is necessary to manage the population growth more sustainably. In contrast, left-leaning groups and economists argue that a larger working-age population contributes positively to the economy and fiscal health through increased tax revenues. The projections highlight the ongoing tension between population growth and immigration policy, especially regarding how the UK will manage its resources and societal needs as it heads toward significantly larger population numbers.