Migration fuels second largest population rise since 1940s
Published: 7/30/2025

England and Wales experience a population surge, with a 700,000 increase in 2024 driven by international migration, reveals the Office for National Statistics. This marks the second-largest annual rise since 1949, primarily attributed to overseas migration. Both Labour and the Conservatives grapple with immigration challenges, with differing approaches to managing migration levels. Shadow Home Secretary stresses the need for tighter controls, while Nigel Farage highlights the societal strain caused by the surge in population.