Immigration and Brexit: myths and realities

‘Taking back control of our borders’ became a rallying cry for Brexiters. In practice, says Jonathan Portes, EU citizens will probably still be able to enter the UK freely after we leave – but the prospect of Brexit, lower unemployment in the rest of the EU and a faltering economy means fewer will stay to work over the next two years. Similarly, a ‘hard border’ between Northern Ireland and the Republic is unlikely. But big questions remain about the work permit scheme the government seems to favour. He debunks some of the myths about Brexit and immigration.