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Population Growth: Impact of Immigration

27 June 2023

Lead MP

John Hayes
South Holland and The Deepings
Con

Responding Minister

Robert Jenrick

Tags

ImmigrationUkraine
Word Count: 9289
Other Contributors: 9

At a Glance

John Hayes raised concerns about population growth: impact of immigration in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Mr. Hayes suggested several measures including raising the wage threshold for employment visas, limiting dependant entry for certain student visa holders, reviewing spouse visa issuance criteria, reducing post-degree stay periods, and focusing on building domestic skills. He also proposed establishing an Office for Demographic Change to provide expert advice and long-term strategies.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

South Holland and The Deepings
Opened the debate
Mr. Hayes expressed deep concern about the rapid population growth driven by immigration, noting that net migration had risen from just 2,000 in 1987 to a record high of 606,000 last year. He highlighted how this unprecedented scale and pace have placed immense burdens on communities across England and Wales, particularly affecting housing, healthcare infrastructure, and the economy. He pointed out that migration alone accounts for 57.5% of population growth in these regions and emphasized the need to address the long-term implications of such growth.

Government Response

Robert Jenrick
Government Response
The Government acknowledges that net migration is too high and needs to be brought down over the medium term. The minister committed to further considering proposals such as those regarding dependants of students, salary thresholds, and family visas. He noted recent steps taken by the Home Office, including restricting student visa dependants and creating humanitarian schemes for Ukraine, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan. Emphasising the importance of housing, public services, integration, and cohesion, he stated that further action would be taken if necessary to address the profound consequences of migration.
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About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.