UK net migration figure slumps to below 200,000

Net migration, calculated as the difference between the numbers leaving and the number of those arriving for a long-term stay, has fallen to 183,000 from 242,000 in the year to March.

Official estimates released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicate that the net migration figure has fallen in 2011/2012 to its lowest figure since 2008/2009. The drop is believed to reflect the fall in the number of overseas students arriving to study in the UK.

Government targets for net migration hover around the tens of thousands mark, with the projected figures forming a key part of the Conservative Party’s immigration policy whilst it was in opposition. Tough action against bogus UK language schools and the vastly-increased cost of a British degree are believed to have contributed to the fall.

The ONS also notes an increase in the number of students arriving from China and a sharp increase in the number of British citizens leaving the country, up from 108,000 to 127,000. According to Home Office minister Mark Harper, the figures show immigration is finally being brought under control.

Campaigner for even tighter controls Migration Watch said it was pleased with the drop in net migration, with chairman Sir Andrew Green adding there are still concerns about the government’s ability to reach its target by 2015. London Mayor Boris Johnson also has concerns, saying that there’s a risk of giving the wrong impression to prospective foreign students, thus harming London’s economy.

Sarah Mulley, speaking for the Institute of Public Policy Research, believes the 26 per cent fall in issued student visas may prove misleading. Apart from the fall in revenue, she says, students are short-term residents, with this year’s immigration reduction set to be next year’s emigration reduction.