Britons back migration shutdown and mass deportations

In recent months, immigration has emerged as a focal issue in Britain, with a significant proportion of the public expressing a desire for drastic changes to migration policies. A YouGov survey discovered that approximately 45% of British voters are in favor of a complete halt to legal immigration and support large-scale deportations of recent migrants. This sentiment is particularly prevalent among supporters of the Reform UK party, which champions strict immigration control. Interestingly, over a quarter of voters from traditionally left-leaning parties, such as the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats, also resonate with these views, indicating a broader concern about immigration that transcends typical party lines. The upsurge in public concern about immigration is notable, especially as recent polls indicate it has become the leading issue for 56% of respondents, a record high since the 2016 Brexit referendum. Many Britons perceive that the immigration landscape has significantly changed since Brexit, with the expectation that leaving the EU would bring tighter immigration control not being met. Instead, subsequent governments have implemented policies that led to increased migration, including new routes for non-EU migrants, thereby intensifying public frustration. This sense of frustration is underpinned by rising instances of illegal immigration, particularly through dangerous crossings of the English Channel, with around 25,000 illegal migrants arriving in the UK in the current year. The growing number of unauthorized arrivals has strained public resources, such as healthcare and housing, leading many citizens to voice their concerns during public protests. Incidents such as the alleged assault by an illegal migrant have further fueled public outrage and calls for stricter immigration measures. Public misperceptions also play a role in shaping attitudes. Notably, 47% of the population mistakenly believes there are more illegal migrants than legal ones, often underestimating the sheer number of legal immigrants actually present. This could be contributing to mounting pressure on the asylum system, as well as public calls for comprehensive immigration reform. Experts like Professor Matt Goodwin have warned that continued high levels of immigration will significantly alter Britain's demographic makeup, predicting that white Britons may become a minority by 2063. As debate continues over immigration policy, the divide between public opinion and government action remains a crucial point of contention.