LONDON (AP) — Former home secretary Suella Braverman has spoken out against the record levels of migration to the UK, stating that the pressure on public services is “unsustainable”. According to figures from the Office for National Statistics, net migration was at an all-time high of 745,000 last year.

Braverman emphasized the need for immediate action by the government to reduce the numbers of people coming to the UK, pointing to the strain on essential services such as housing, the NHS, schools, wages, and community cohesion. She also called for the implementation of measures including an annual cap on net migration and the closure of certain visa routes.

In response, a spokesperson from 10 Downing Street acknowledged that migration to the UK is “far too high” and outlined steps to address the issue, such as tightening regulations for student dependents and increasing visa costs. The New Conservatives group, along with other Tory MPs, echoed the urgency to address the migration crisis, describing it as a “do or die” issue for the party.

Additionally, statisticians reported that the majority of arrivals were from countries outside the European Union, with students comprising the largest group of non-EU migrants. However, there was an increase in the number of workers arriving with visas to fill critical staff shortages in the NHS and social care.

While the Office for National Statistics indicated a potential slowing down in the rate of net migration in provisional figures for June of the current year, it cautioned that it was too early to confirm a downward trend. Home Secretary James Cleverly reiterated the government’s commitment to reducing levels of legal migration and addressing visa system abuses.

The Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, criticized the high net migration levels, attributing it to failings in immigration and the economy. Similarly, the SNP’s home affairs spokeswoman, Alison Thewliss, emphasized the need for Scotland to have greater control over migration, accusing the UK government of failing to attract essential talent to boost the economy and the NHS.

To conclude, the issue of migration continues to be a point of contention, as figures reveal record levels of net migration to the UK. The government is under pressure to act decisively, implementing measures to address the strain on public services and the economy caused by the influx of migrants.