Historically, the UK and other European countries have sought workers from underdeveloped and poorer nations. This was particularly evident after the Second World War when the UK and Europe faced a significant workforce shortage. The Indian subcontinent provided labourers for the UK’s leading manufacturing industries at the time, specifically the automobile and textile industries in the North. Additionally, individuals from the West Indies took over Transport and Health services roles.
Initially, these workers were assumed to return to their home countries. However, many immigrants felt lonely and isolated due to being away from their families, adapting to different cultures, and enduring harsh weather conditions. In response to these challenges, a suggestion was made to allow these workers to bring their families to the UK to enhance productivity and efficiency. While this policy did increase worker productivity, it also marked the beginning of immigration challenges and growing resentment in the UK.
Gradually, it became clear that while the UK needed workers, these individuals were also human beings deserving of dignity. They could not be treated like workers in the Middle East. Being a proponent of democracy and human rights, the UK could not overlook the fact that immigrants have emotions, feelings, aspirations, and families. They deserve to be treated as fellow human beings.
Since the migration waves of the 1950s and 1960s, the UK has made significant progress. The last Prime Minister was the son of a migrant, and 60% of NHS doctors come from ethnic minorities. The current leader of the Conservative Party is the daughter of a Nigerian immigrant. However, a new wave of anti-immigrant sentiment is emerging and becoming prominent in the UK, Europe, and the United States. Many from the indigenous population feel threatened and alarmed by the influx of new immigrants. Immigration remains a top issue on the agendas of Western societies.
Rightly or wrongly, many in the far-right movements believe that immigrants have failed to adopt local values and culture and that they are unwilling to integrate, leading to claims that the experiment of multiculturalism has failed. Particularly alarming were the statements made by the Mayor of London and the First Minister of Scotland—both of whom are Muslim and of Pakistani descent—following recent racial riots in the UK. They noted that their parents faced significant challenges and endured racial abuse and discrimination, but they felt satisfied with their achievements. However, the widespread riots have created a sense of fear regarding their children’s future.
This is a concerning situation for all ethnic minorities. I recall Mrs Thatcher’s warning that “when the majority gets angry, things can go out of control.” Despite these fears, two facts are clear and must be acknowledged:Â
1. Individuals from ethnic minorities who were born in the UK or have adopted it as their homeland are not going anywhere.
2. While we can regulate the flow of new immigrants, it is impossible to stop this process.
Therefore, leaders of ethnic communities from all walks of life must unite and foster harmony and understanding among all factions of society. The UK is currently experiencing economic stagnation, and rising living costs have placed it 20th among the happiest countries in the world. We must unite to uplift the country back into the top ten and Great Britain again.Â
It’s important to remember that the UK was once the world’s only superpower before the Second World War and boasted the largest empire in history.
This article is authored by our Senior Legal Advisor, Dost Malik, you can reach him at dmalik@faranitaylor.com or call at +44Â 207 242 1666.