The British Public Thinks Immigration Is Up. It’s Actually Down, Sharply.

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Michael D. ShearNovember 27, 2025 at 03:16 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Official data released in Britain on November 27, 2025, reveals a sharp decline in net migration. The Office for National Statistics reports that net migration fell to 204,000 in the 12 months leading up to June 2025, a significant drop from 649,000 the previous year. This represents an almost 80% decrease from the 2023 peak of nearly a million people. The decline is attributed to fewer people arriving for work and study, coupled with a gradual increase in emigration. Despite this decrease, some politicians, including Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, have used language suggesting migration is increasing, even as the numbers indicate a downward trend.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Office for National Statistics 80% Shabana Mahmood ×2100% Britain ×6100%

Keywords

immigration 100% net migration 90% public perception 70% migration patterns 60% emigration 50% restrictive measures 50% political rhetoric 40% office for national statistics 40%