Carolyn Harris MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Office Minister, commenting on the release of the Office for National Statistics UK Migration figures, said:

“These figures are a reminder of Theresa May’s failings as Home Secretary. Once again, the Tory promise on immigration lies in tatters and net migration remains more than three times their target. For all the rhetoric, it is clear the Government failed to devise either a fair or firm approach to immigration.

“But as Prime Minister, Theresa May must not sell the country down the river during Brexit negotiations on the movement of people just to cut these numbers. She needs to secure a deal that damages the British economy as little as possible. 

“We need a comprehensive and coherent approach to migration too. It must tackle the skills gaps, protect wages and the going-rate, support communities, control our borders and work in a fair way for everyone. The Government’s current approach is failing on every count.”