New figures released by the Office of National Statistics on Thursday are expected to show a sharp rise in net migration to the UK in 2022.

The rise was driven by a series of “unprecedented world events”, according to the ONS.

These include the war in Ukraine, the end of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, the resettlement of Afghan refugees, the new visa route for British nationals from Hong Kong, and students arriving from outside the EU.

Prime Minister Sunak is under pressure, particularly from Home Secretary Suella Braverman, to bring down migration
as promised in their 2019 manifesto.

The Home Office released figures for irregular migration, including those who arrive illegally in boats, for the first quarter of 2023.

The government has faced criticism over its tough stance on people crossing the channel on small boats.

Aljazeera.