UK MP faces backlash over remarks on Indian and Pakistani immigrants

British MP Rupert Lowe has come under fire after making controversial comments about Indian and Pakistani immigrants living and working in the UK. In a series of posts on social media platform X, Lowe claimed that immigrants were taking jobs that should be given to unemployed British citizens.

Lowe, who represents Great Yarmouth and recently launched his new political party, Restore Britain, said he was not concerned about being called racist for expressing his views. He argued that Britain should focus on helping its own people find work instead of bringing in workers from other countries.

The MP also claimed that immigration has changed the character of some British towns and cities. He made several remarks about Muslim communities and criticised practices such as wearing burqas, halal slaughter and public prayer gatherings. Lowe further promised stricter policies on immigration and cultural issues if his party gains power in the future.

His comments quickly sparked criticism online, with many people accusing him of encouraging racial and religious divisions. Critics said his statements unfairly blamed entire communities and could increase tensions in society.

Official figures, however, suggest a more complex picture. According to census data, people of Indian and Pakistani origin make up less than one percent of the population in Lowe’s constituency of Great Yarmouth, as per reports. The area also has a higher unemployment rate than the national average.

Research from the University of Oxford’s Migration Observatory reportedly shows that many migrant workers are employed in sectors facing labour shortages, especially healthcare and social care. Reports citing experts say these workers help fill important vacancies that are often difficult to staff.