Government has made progress but immigration remains a major problem
IT is a sign of the times that annual net migration of 273,000 is something to cheer yet given this is the lowest that figure has been for more than two years there is indeed some cause to congratulate the Government.
The government has drastically reduced the level of immigration to the UK
But while this is a start ministers still have a mountain to climb.
Net migration at this level occurred because the 323,000 people who left the UK were far outweighed by the 596,000 immigrants who arrived.
As recently as a couple of decades ago that number of people coming here during a 12-month period would have seemed impossible.
Any politician who suggested it might be a good idea would have been hounded from office.
This is why Tony Blair’s efforts to open our borders were done without consulting the public.
Nowadays the political class mostly regards such a colossal rate of immigration as par for the course.
Theresa May's Brexit deal must give the UK full control over its borders
The reason is our membership of the EU. The bloc’s expansion into eastern Europe gave millions a right to come here and as a result immigration from the EU has overtaken that from the rest of the world.
Brexit deal must bring back full control over our borders
The number of people from Romania and Bulgaria – two of the poorest countries in Europe – has rocketed.
The conclusion is simple. To get migration back down to a sensible level, the Brexit deal must bring back full control over our borders. Nothing less will do.
Farage has given it his all
NIGEL Farage’s interview with Piers Morgan lays bare the sacrifices he made during his long fight for Brexit.
Nigel Farage APOLOGISES to the nation about immigration
Since the referendum, it is clear that the settled will of the British people is to quit the EU.
But for decades this was a niche position, kept alive in political circles by a small number of committed figures.
These few brave patriots were roundly denounced by the liberal establishment.
Nigel Farage put everything on the line to achieve Brexit
Maintaining their position required huge determination and immense confidence.
That is certainly what Mr Farage has demonstrated throughout his career in politics.
Without him the referendum would never have happened and Britain would not be leaving the EU.
For staying the course despite all the troubles he faced, the Daily Express is deeply grateful.
Look out for one another
STORM Doris caused not only immense disruption but widespread damage and the tragic loss of life.
The worst has passed but there is still expected to be flooding on the way.
With infrastructure in some areas struggling to cope, why not demonstrate some community spirit by looking out for vulnerable friends and neighbours?
It can make such a tremendous difference.