Due to the increasing number of Chinese students coming to study in the United Kingdom, China has surpassed India to become the largest source of immigrants to the UK for the first time.
The UK Office for National Statistics conducted an "International Passenger Survey" at customs ports, which found that in 2012, Chinese nationals accounted for 8.7% of all arrivals, totaling 40,000 individuals. India, Poland, the United States, and Australia ranked second to fifth. Among the 40,000 Chinese nationals entering the UK, the vast majority are students. The report from the statistics office specifically noted that most Chinese students return to their home country after completing their studies. This is also reflected in surveys of departing travelers. Last year, 16,000 people left the UK for China, accounting for 5% of the total number of departures.
According to relevant statistics, the total number of individuals holding Chinese passports in the UK is 600,000, including 120,000 international students. UK Prime Minister David Cameron stated before his visit to China that the Chinese community has made significant contributions to the development of British society. He mentioned that statistics show that the Chinese community in the UK has the lowest unemployment rate, the lowest crime rate, and the highest level of education among successful communities, contributing to the development of the UK’s economy, culture, and other aspects. Cameron particularly emphasized that the number of Chinese students coming to study in the UK is continuously increasing. He hopes everyone understands that the UK does not set a cap on the number of Chinese international students. As long as they meet the language and application requirements set by UK universities, the UK welcomes them without imposing a limit on numbers, which is beneficial for the development of Sino-British relations and exchanges in education, culture, and the economy.