Net migration to the UK hit record 900,000 in 2023

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Net immigration to the UK exceeded 900,000 for the year to June 2023, the highest annual total on record and much more than previously thought, according to official figures issued on Thursday.

The revised Office for National Statistics figure of 906,000 for the period, in the aftermath of the pandemic, far outstripped the previous estimate of 672,000.

The ONS added that net immigration has since fallen 20 per cent to 728,000 for the 12 months to June this year.

The decline came after the UK’s previous Conservative government, which left office in July, tightened controls on international students and care workers.

The ONS cited fewer family members accompanying international students, and students who had arrived in earlier years returning home.

There had been an increase in the number of family members accompanying work-related migrants but the ONS said the most recent figures showed the policy changes starting to take effect.

This is a developing story