Immigration is 'too high' - the simple stat that risks causing a headache for Rishi Sunak

Rishi Sunak faces increasing pressure as a new poll shows 57 per cent of Brits believe immigration levels are “too high”.

In his five key priorities for 2023, the prime minister pledged new laws that would mean “if you come to the country illegally, you are detained and swiftly removed”.

But a survey, carried out by UnHerd Britain, reveals the growing tide across Britain opposing the current levels of immigration as a whole.

While 57 per cent agree with the statement “immigration levels are too high”, just 20 per cent disagree, based on the beliefs of 10,000 voters.

Cutting immigration looks to be a key priority for voters in the Red Wall, with constituencies such as Boston and Skegness, Doncaster North and Hartlepool showing the highest levels of agreement with the sentiment.

Just one constituency of the 632 surveyed has more residents who disagree with the statement. In the constituency of Bristol West, which also ranks as the constituency that harbours most regret over Brexit, 35 per cent said immigration was too high while 38 per cent said the opposite.

The polling shows voters believe the Government have failed to deliver on taking back control of immigration, nearly seven years on from the Brexit vote.

Sunak now faces pressure to deliver on the pledge, having promised to cut down on small boat crossings and ensure any illegal immigrants are deported swiftly upon entering UK shores.

Red Wall constituencies are strongly in favour of tackling illegal immigration
Gareth Fuller

The Prime Minister claimed recently during a trip to Oldham the UK has already “taken control” of the immigration system while committing to deliver on the benefits of Brexit.

He told broadcasters: “I was proud to vote for Brexit and now as Prime Minister I’m keen to make sure we deliver the benefits of it.”

Tensions have grown in recent months over the spate of small boat crossings in the Channel, with violent scenes ensuing outside a hotel where asylum seekers were staying in Knowsley.

Three people were arrested during the “deeply shocking” violent scenes in early February.

The prime minister has insisted the Government has already begun tackling illegal immigration
James Glossop/The Times

Merseyside Police said they were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and taken to police stations to be questioned, after protesters hurled missiles and damaged a police van.

Officers in Prescot, Knowsley, were dealing with two groups of protesters after a demonstration descended into chaos outside the Suites Hotel in Ribblers Lane.

Knowsley MP Sir George Howarth said the demonstration was triggered by “an alleged incident on social media” and criticised misinformation claiming refugees were “feather-bedded” inside.

Videos shared on social media appear to show a police van on fire and officers carrying riot shields in the area.