Actuaries are saying that the UK is close to its all time low birth rate which could spell major problems for this country in the longer term. Lower numbers of younger people = lower numbers of workers = lower numbers of taxpayers = pressure on the Government to alter benefits for the ever increasing retired population.
There are currently 3.9 people aged 15-64 for every person over 65, in 2050 this will be down to 2.2.
There will be a real crisis if incentives are perhaps not offered to encourage people to have larger families.
Our view
Is this why the Government, whilst on the face of it is discouraging immigration to the UK, is actually not doing a significant amount to prevent mass migration to the UK? Does the UK need immigrant workers who will settle here, start families and pay taxes?
We believe the UK does. Both politically and economically this is a real 'hot potato'.