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UK net migration halved to 431,000 in 2024, the lowest since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Office for National Statistics. The drop is attributed to fewer work and study visas and a decrease in dependents accompanying visa holders. While the Home Office reported a decrease in asylum seekers housed in hotels, the number remains higher than when the Labour government took office. The government credits increased processing of asylum claims and returns of failed asylum seekers and foreign criminals for the reduction. However, opposition figures, including Conservative MPs, express concerns that the numbers remain too high, while the Reform UK leader called the figures 'disastrous'.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.