The population of the United Kingdom has reached a record high of 68.3 million, surpassing France for the first time, driven by a surge in international migration. New data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that in the year to June 2024, the population of England and Wales grew by 700,000, the second largest annual increase in over 75 years.
Net international migration accounted for 98% of the growth, with an estimated 1.14 million people immigrating and 452,000 emigrating. Natural change—the difference between births and deaths—added only 30,000 to the population. The ONS noted that the population has risen each year since 1982, but the pace has accelerated recently.
Nigel Henretty of the ONS stated, “Net international migration continues to be the main driver of this growth, continuing the long-term trend seen since the turn of the century.” The total population of England and Wales now stands at 61.8 million, up 1.2% from 61.1 million the previous year.
The government has responded with plans to cut immigration, including stricter English requirements and tighter work visa rules. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced criticism for describing the UK as an “island of strangers” while announcing the measures, later expressing regret for his choice of words.
Meanwhile, the UK’s falling birthrate, at 1.44 children per woman—the lowest since records began in 1938—has raised concerns. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said she wants more young people to have children if they choose, citing the cost of living and housing as deterrents.
