The Downside of Immigration
It is obvious to me that with a shrinking population and skill shortage, coupled with a great reluctance of the endemic population to do the poorly paid menial tasks, we need to import workers.
The question is what skills and from where and how can this be achieved without causing problems for the indigenous population.
Last year just short of one and a half million people entered the country. Most of them were legally ‘imported’. They are either coming to study (bringing the brains and high-level skills to the country) or to carry out jobs for which we do not have the labour force or skills (carers, field work, NHS, catering, hospitality, building, electricians, plumbing, dentistry etc.). We need them for the economy and to make sure that services operate smoothly. We have big shortages!
The trouble is that an influx of such large numbers creates a host of knock-on problems. They all need to use the facilities and support:
- Housing
- Schooling
- Infrastructure
- Doctors
- Roads
- Services
- Policing
- Food
It puts a strain on areas that are already suffering due to 14 years of Tory cuts.
On top of that the indigenous population feel increasingly displaced as they find themselves in a minority, surrounded by unfamiliar customs, religions and languages. They find this threatening and feel ousted from their own homes. This builds an antagonism that grows into anger and resentment.
So, how do we find the balance to control immigration at a level that does not cause resentment and anger, does not overstretch our facilities, but does supply the needs of the economy?