UK Voters Mistrust Government on Immigration Despite Sharp Fall in Migration

A large majority of UK voters believe immigration is rising, despite official data showing a sharp decline in net migration, according to new polling reported by The Guardian. The survey indicates widespread public scepticism about the government’s ability to manage borders, presenting a challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour administration.

Net migration fell by more than two-thirds to 204,000 in the year ending June 2025, yet 67% of respondents said they thought immigration had increased. The perception was strongest among Reform voters. Overall confidence in the government’s handling of immigration remains low, with nearly three-quarters expressing little or no trust.

The Labour government has proposed tougher asylum and migration policies, including longer pathways to citizenship and tighter rules on family reunification. Despite these measures, polling suggests public concern remains driven largely by irregular Channel crossings, even though small-boat arrivals account for less than 5% of total migration.

Analysts say entrenched perceptions may take time to shift, even as visa applications and net migration fall. While ministers credit recent policies for the decline, critics within Labour warn that adopting hardline rhetoric risks harming key sectors such as health and social care, without restoring public confidence.