Think Tank Warns Immigration is Worsening Housing Crisis
The Centre for Policy Studies indicates that substantial migration is creating strain on the housing sector, as new housing developments struggle to keep up with the rising demand.
Migration is significantly worsening the housing crisis, impacting the rental market, social housing, and housing expenses, states a think tank.
Pressures on Renting and Social Housing
The report highlighted that besides affecting the housing deficit, large-scale immigration is also inflating house prices.
By observing the correlation between household sizes, total housing stock, and housing prices between 2012 and 2022, the CPS calculated that the rise in population due to immigration canceled out a significant portion of the downward pressure on prices from expanding the housing stock, negating the benefits of increased supply.
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The report further argues that social housing is disproportionately occupied by individuals born overseas, impacting public resources and infrastructure as well.
The report emphasizes the need to significantly increase housebuilding rates and reduce net migration levels to effectively address the housing crisis.
Back to Net Migration in the ‘Tens of Thousands’
To alleviate the pressures caused by the current immigration system, the think tank recommends returning net migration to historical norms by imposing various caps and regulations on different visa categories.
The report calls for restructuring the Home Office into two separate departments—one focusing on border security and immigration control, and the other on policing and national security.
Mr. Jenrick highlights that these changes would help to establish a selective and skilled immigration system as promised to voters, while finally addressing the issue of low-skilled mass migration.
The report suggests that changes in immigration policies and restructuring the Home Office would help control immigration numbers effectively and secure borders, addressing major concerns of voters.
The Government has responded to the report by stating that efforts are already underway to reduce migration levels significantly while ensuring a fair and balanced approach to immigration.
The spokesperson noted that recent statistics show a considerable decline in visa applications, signifying initial success in curbing migration.
The ongoing approach aims to prioritize domestic workforce development and recruitment while supporting economic contributors from overseas.
PA Media contributed to this report.
