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25 May 2017updated 12 Oct 2023 11:00am

Freedom of movement didn’t start with the EU – it’s the norm for Britain

Britain has only had full controls on immigration for one 11-year period. There's a reason. 

By Colin Yeo

There was a short period of just 11 years between 1962 and 1973 when free movement of people did not apply in the UK. Other than during that time, businesses and public services have had easy access to workers from other countries. Following Brexit, the UK will be embarking on a similar period. If the full force of UK immigration law is brought to bear on all foreign nationals, this will require major adjustments in economy and society.

One wonders how long the interregnum might last this time.

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