Cameron's take on immigration

A very good speech on demography from Cameron, I thought. Perhaps, the clearest and widest-ranging one delivered by any frontbench politician so far. “Demographic change” is better than the I-word (as Jon Cruddas says). The “atomisation of society” is a major factor in housing pressure, and shows the relevance of his pro-family stance. It was filled with statistics, and had only a few weak spots—citing Layard is one step away from citing Polly, and he reprised his “general wellbeing” nonsense which I’d rather hoped was buried.

Afterwards, I asked Cameron if he agrees with ministerial assessments that a third of immigration can be controlled. He said he thinks it’s “substantially higher” than a third. How high? Would he say a majority? He said yes, a majority of “settlers” can be controlled. What’s his reasoning? How have ministers got it wrong? I’d love to know. I fear that his immigration advisory panel will give the illusion that we can control this. But talking about it honestly is a start. As a result, Cameron has taken the lead on immigration – and, in doing so, has conquered his own demons.