Bournemouth, a place that used to be a haven for holidaymakers, is now facing problems. Empty shops line the streets, homelessness is on the rise, and crime rates are high. These issues are casting a shadow over this southern seaside town.
In the past year, Bournemouth has become the center of anti – immigration and counter protests. As part of the BBC’s immigration week, the views of many people on this issue were sought. Paul Haigh, a builder from Bournemouth, is one of them. He took part in the protests.
Mr Haigh has changed his political stance. He believes illegal immigration is straining the NHS, schools, and housing. He said, “Wanting controlled immigration doesn’t make me a racist. A lot of people say controlled immigration is good for the country, and it is. I don’t care about a person’s skin color. But immigration has to be controlled, just like everything else.”
In August, Mr Haigh joined 200 protesters from the anti – immigration group Taking Back Our Country outside Bournemouth’s town hall. He feels the protests came from people’s frustration. They felt their concerns were not being listened to. He said, “I think nobody is listening to us. When you’re not heard, it turns into anger. Taxpayers’ money is being wasted, and people’s quality of life isn’t great. Social security should help those who need it, but if it’s being wasted, it’s not good for the country. All services suffer.”
This demonstration was one of many in towns and cities across the country in 2024. About 250 people from counter groups, like Stand Up To Racism, also showed up.
For Mr Haigh, going to the protests wasn’t about being far – right. It was about “justice and fairness.” He said, “If we can afford to be more charitable, that’s great, but we can’t. So we need people to contribute to the country’s wealth. That helps those who really need our help.” One reason he went was that he wants to change the English immigration system to a points – based one, like in Australia. He said, “You can’t call all of Australia racist.” In Australia, work visas are given based on points for age, skills, and qualifications, and criminal records are checked.
Mr Haigh also said, “I think they come to England for the benefits. People say they’re fleeing war – torn countries, but France isn’t war – torn, and they get on boats in France to come here.” To enter the UK legally, you need a passport or identity document and often a visa. EU citizens must have settled or pre – settled status. If not, the migrant has entered illegally and could be arrested by Immigration Enforcement. Once registered with the government, they can seek asylum. In 2024, about 95% of illegal migrants applied for asylum. While their applications are being looked at, they can apply for benefits like housing or cash support. Mr Haigh thinks it’s not fair that British taxpayers have to pay for illegal immigration. He said, “Why should I pay for years, and then someone comes and gets full benefits without contributing?”
According to the Home Office, anyone who has started the asylum process can get £49 a week and a place to live, but they can’t choose the accommodation. In comparison, unemployed British citizens can get £90 a week, or £71 if they’re under 25.
Mr Haigh used to vote Conservative but decided to vote for Reform UK in the 2024 general election. Since it was set up as The Brexit Party in November 2018, Reform UK has seen more voters. In the 2024 general election, they got almost 17% of the vote in Bournemouth West. In 2019, no candidate from the party stood. The party’s main promise is to stop uncontrolled immigration, which it says will boost wages, protect public services, end the housing crisis, and cut crime.
However, the pro – immigration charity International Care Network said illegal migrants should be welcomed and supported with care. A spokesperson said, “People decide to get in a small boat or on a lorry because it’s safer than staying where they are. Many have experienced a lot of trauma.”
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