Charity brands immigration fears a 'manufactured panic' as poll reveals stark national-local divide

2 days ago7 min read

A stark divide between national rhetoric and local reality in British politics has been exposed by a new YouGov survey. While 54% of respondents view immigration as a critical national issue, only 26% consider it a pressing concern within their own communities.This chasm, described by a leading charity as a 'manufactured panic,' reveals how political narratives can overshadow lived experience. The data suggests anxieties are being amplified by media coverage and political campaigns rather than emerging from grassroots concerns.This strategic nationalization of immigration was reflected in yesterday's council byelections, where Reform UK gained two seats by tapping into this very disconnect. Though minor in practical terms, these victories carry significant political weight, demonstrating the potency of leveraging perceived national crises.The phenomenon mirrors populist strategies seen across Europe and North America, where identity politics frequently override local issues. This creates a dangerous disconnect between political discourse and community needs, potentially leading to policies driven by sentiment rather than substance. For mainstream parties, the warning is clear: failing to address this perception gap could cede crucial ground to movements skilled at weaponizing abstract anxieties.

#lead focus news

#UK politics

#immigration poll

#council by-elections

#Reform UK

#YouGov

#local concerns