Indian migrants boost UK workforce, economy in post-Brexit era: Report
The white paper, released last week at the House of Lords complex, concludes that Indian migrants have been a "boon rather than a burden" for the British economy because of their strong deployable skills and adaptability.
The migration of Indians to the United Kingdom has strengthened its workforce and economic resilience, particularly in healthcare, engineering and technology, according to a new report released in London.
The white paper, released last week at the House of Lords complex, concludes that Indian migrants have been a "boon rather than a burden" for the British economy because of their strong deployable skills and adaptability.
Titled 'Migration of the Indian Diaspora to the UK: Shaping economic resilience, cultural dynamism and global influence', the study was jointly produced by the Aston University India Centre and Here & Now 365.
It examines four major waves of Indian migration to Britain since the Second World War, with particular focus on the current post-Brexit "fourth wave".
POST-BREXIT ‘FOURTH WAVE’ IN FOCUS
The report describes the latest phase of migration as being shaped by tighter visa rules, labour shortages and changing global mobility patterns.
It notes that Indian professionals have become central to sectors facing acute workforce gaps, including health and social care, digital services, construction, and advanced engineering.
"The aim is to move the debate beyond 'burden or boon' and the focus is on what migration delivers in terms of jobs, services, and value created," the white paper stated, as per PTI.
"The findings resonate that skills- and needs-based migration matches people with the roles that the country needs, while upholding standards."
"The aim is to balance opportunity with system pressures to ensure speedy deployment where shortages are acute, improve retention and progression (especially in adult social care), and ensure gains are reaped across the country," it added.
According to the authors, Indian migrants have become a visible and reliable part of Britain’s working force, helping keep key services running and playing a growing role in the country’s long-term economic growth.
CALL FOR SMARTER MIGRATION POLICIES
Rather than arguing for higher or lower migration numbers, the report calls for what it terms "smarter migration".
It recommends clearer visa pathways, predictable rules and faster recognition of professional qualifications. Greater emphasis on integration is also urged, so that "mobility becomes a long-term advantage rather than a short-term fix".
The study argues that immigration policy should be aligned more closely with employer demand, particularly in public services and high-growth industries.
The analysis links migration policy with economic relations, urging policymakers to use the India–UK free trade agreement as a bridge to reduce barriers in services and mobility.