40 per cent think British culture is undermined by multiculturalism, survey finds

A large minority of people in the UK believe multiculturalism has undermined British culture and that migrants do not properly integrate, according to some of the broadest research into the population’s attitudes to immigration.

The study, conducted over the last two years, also reflects widespread frustration at the government’s handling of immigration, with only 15 per cent of respondents feeling ministers have managed it competently and fairly.

On balance, the UK population appears to be slightly more positive than negative about the impact of immigration; however, 40 per cent of respondents agreed that having a wide variety of backgrounds has undermined British culture.

More than a quarter of people believe MPs never tell the truth about immigration and half the population wants to see a reduction in the numbers of low-skilled workers coming into Britain from the EU.

The study was based on a survey of 3,667 adults carried out in June by ICM, as well as 60 citizens’ panels carried out on behalf of the think tank British Future and the anti-racism group Hope Not Hate.

“The lack of trust we found in the government to manage immigration is quite shocking,” said Jill Rutter, the director of strategy for British Future. “People want to have their voices heard on the choices we make, and to hold their leaders to account on their promises. While people do want the UK government to have more control over who can come to the UK, most of them are ‘balancers’ – they recognise the benefits of migration to Britain, both economically and culturally, but also voice concerns about pressures on public services and housing.”