Net migration dropped nearly 50% in 2024 to 431,000, as per ONS
According to the National Statistics Bureau, net migration saw a significant decline of almost 50% in 2024. This is based on a recent report released today.
They noted that the long-term net migration number has fallen to an estimated 431,000 at the end of December 2024, compared to 860,000 the previous year. This drop is largely attributed to reduced immigration from non-EU citizens.
Interestingly, there has been a noted rise in individuals arriving on work and research visas, reflecting shifts in immigration patterns leading up to December 2024.
The estimated total long-term immigration for the year ending December 2024 was around 948,000, which is a significant reduction from the revised figure of 1,326,000 in December 2023. This also marks the first time since March 2022 that numbers have dropped below one million.
On the other hand, long-term emigration during this period was estimated at 517,000, showing an increase of about 11% from 466,000 the previous year. This puts current immigration levels similar to those recorded in June 2017.
High Court halts UK deal regarding Chagos Islands
A high court judge has taken action to prevent the UK government from finalizing a contract regarding the Chagos Islands, following an injunction issued earlier today.
Government’s sentencing reform proposal faces criticism
Good morning. Shabana Mahmood, the Attorney General, has unveiled plans aimed at reducing prison sentences for certain offenders. This has generated considerable discussion, as the proposed changes are quite a shift from historical criminal justice policies. The UK has notably had higher incarceration rates compared to many other Western European nations.
Mahmood has shared reviews from David Gauke, a former Attorney General who conducted a comprehensive examination of the sentencing framework. The recommendations made will be discussed in a statement Mahmood is expected to deliver to lawmakers later. Initial indications suggest she might accept most of the recommendations.
A source within the government mentioned that Mahmood is likely to endorse essential aspects of the review, including provisions for allowing well-behaved offenders to be released on supervision after serving a third of their sentence.
Moreover, it has been suggested that those convicted of serious crimes might be eligible for community service after serving half of their sentence, which raises various opinions.
Critics from the Conservative party have voiced strong opposition, arguing that such measures could essentially “decriminalize” various offenses. Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, expressed his discontent, stating that these moves could allow criminals to act without fear of significant repercussions.
In defense, Gauke emphasized the urgent need for reform, suggesting that existing prison capacities are insufficient, and the current system is at risk of collapsing.
This is quite the mixed bag of opinions. It should be interesting to see how these discussions develop, particularly given the broader implications for the justice system.
Here’s a quick look at what’s on the agenda for today:
- 9:30am: Culture Secretary Lisa Nandi responds to questions at Commons.
- 9:30am: Immigration figures for the fiscal year ending December 2024 are revealed by the National Bureau of Statistics.
- 10am: Kent County Council convenes for the first time post-reforms.
- 10:30am: Commons leader Lucy Powell raises questions about forthcoming business in the Commons.
- Around 11:30am: Attorney General Shabana Mahmood is expected to provide an update on the Gauke Review.
- noon: John Swinney engages with MSPS.
If you have any insights or comments, feel free to share. I generally check messages during certain hours, but I make an effort to respond to anything directed my way.
