The article details a conversation between Clive, a consultant engineer, and Sheena, an author and lecturer, over dinner where they discussed immigration. Clive noted the significant percentage of healthcare professionals born outside the UK, arguing that their presence is essential to fill gaps in the NHS. However, Sheena cautioned against framing immigrants merely as 'gap fillers', emphasizing their contributions to society. Their dialogue reflects contrasting but respectful viewpoints on the subject, revealing the complexities of immigration discourse in the UK and personal connections over a shared meal.
‘We need immigrants because there are gaps in the NHS or even, They’ve brought a lot to our country and contributed to our society’ is not helpful.
‘I think 35% of doctors here were born outside the UK, 27% of people in nursing’ highlights the critical role of immigrants in the UK's healthcare system.
‘I’m in favour of people coming as students, and if they get a job afterwards, contribute to society and the economy’ suggests a pragmatic approach to immigration.
Clive was a lovely, decent fellow, very different from my university colleagues and social circle.
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