A recent poll indicates that discussing immigration is a sensitive topic for British families during the Christmas season. Despite coming together for festive gatherings, many prefer to steer clear of conversations about politicians, the economy, and religion, especially during Christmas dinner.
According to new data from Public First, 43% of respondents aim to avoid discussing immigration during the holiday period, ranking it as the most avoided topic, ahead of politics (39%), the economy (35%), and religion (33%). Notably, older individuals, particularly those aged 55-64, are most inclined to avoid conversations about immigration, with 51% expressing reluctance.
The tendency to sidestep discussions on immigration cuts across various political affiliations, with Liberal Democrat supporters (48%) showing the highest inclination to avoid the topic, followed by Green (47%) and Reform voters (45%). Labour supporters (42%) and Tories (39%) also indicated a desire to steer clear of immigration talks.
In recent years, immigration has emerged as a divisive issue, highlighted by protests outside asylum hotels and anti-immigration riots in response to past incidents. Additionally, a significant portion of young people, as per the same polling, are likely to engage in arguments with family members during Christmas gatherings.
Seb Wride, a Public First partner and opinion research head, noted a clear disparity between public discourse on immigration among politicians and the media versus what people are willing to discuss during their holiday meals. While individuals are becoming more vocal about immigration in general, there remains a reluctance to broach the topic within family settings, indicating a disconnect in societal divides even as the issue gains prominence.