Leena Chouhan on UK Immigration and the rising population
Leena Chouhan, Head of Immigration at Taylor Hampton Solicitors, comments on a recent article in The Daily Telegraph. She believes the discussion around immigration needs a more balanced perspective, focusing on both the challenges and the opportunities migration brings to the UK.
A recent article in The Daily Telegraph highlights projections that the UK’s population is set to reach 72.5 million by 2032, largely driven by immigration. The report outlines how nearly 10 million new arrivals are expected over the next decade, sparking debate about the implications for infrastructure, public services, and the wider economy. While some see this as a potential strain on resources, others argue that it presents an opportunity for economic growth and demographic renewal.
UK Infrastructure Challenge
Leena Chouhan acknowledges that concerns about rising population numbers are valid, particularly regarding housing, healthcare, and education. The UK has long faced challenges in ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with demand, and sudden demographic shifts can put additional pressure on these systems. However, she also points out that immigration in the UK is essential for filling skills gaps, sustaining economic productivity, and addressing an aging population. Without immigration, sectors such as healthcare, construction, and technology would struggle to meet workforce demands.
“The discussion needs to be framed more holistically,” Chouhan explains. “Yes, we must ensure that immigration is well-managed and that infrastructure keeps up, but we also need to recognize the positive role migrants play in our society. Many of those arriving bring valuable skills, contribute to economic growth, and help address labour shortages.”
Pressure on the Health Service
One of the key points raised in The Daily Telegraph article is the pressure on the National Health Service (NHS). With an increasing population, the demand for medical services will inevitably rise. However, Chouhan notes that many migrants are also healthcare professionals—doctors, nurses, and carers—who are crucial to keeping the system running. “Restricting immigration without considering these factors could worsen the very challenges people are concerned about,” she adds.
Housing Concerns for Immigration in the UK
Housing is another major concern. The article warns of an intensified housing crisis as demand outstrips supply. Chouhan acknowledges this as a legitimate issue but suggests that rather than blaming migration, the focus should be on improving housing policies, increasing construction, and ensuring sustainable urban planning. “It’s not simply a question of numbers,” she says. “We need to ask why the housing sector is failing to meet demand and address the root causes rather than scapegoating immigration.”
From an economic standpoint, immigration plays a key role in maintaining the UK’s global competitiveness. With a shrinking domestic workforce and an aging population, the country relies on skilled migrants to drive innovation and keep industries thriving. “The global competition for talent is fierce,” Chouhan explains. “If we make immigration overly restrictive, we risk losing out on top talent that fuels sectors such as finance, tech, and medicine.”
Migrants contribution to the tax base
Another significant factor is the contribution of migrants to public finances. Studies consistently show that migrants contribute more in taxes than they take out in benefits, helping to fund public services and social security. Chouhan points out that if immigration were significantly reduced, the tax base could shrink, putting even greater pressure on government budgets. “We have to look at the long-term economic benefits, not just short-term concerns,” she emphasizes.
Conclusion
Finally, Chouhan calls for a more informed and balanced debate around immigration in the UK and policy decisions. “It’s essential that we move beyond sensational headlines and focus on evidence-based discussions,” she says. “Immigration has challenges, but it also offers significant benefits. Our policies should be built on pragmatism, not fear.”
As the UK government continues to review immigration policies, voices like Chouhan’s are essential in shaping a fair and effective approach. Rather than seeing migration as a problem to be solved, she suggests, it should be viewed as an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient society.
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