[danielf]

Osem: Good points, and I'm definitely not suggesting that there are no concerns about mass immigration throughout Europe. What I am saying is that when you look at the data, the UK does not appear to be overrun by immigrants to a larger extent than comparable European Nations, yet the Brits appear disproportionately concerned. Whether that's a case of xenophobia, pressure on already stretched and underfunded public services or some other genuine concern I don't know, but the difference is quite striking. As it stands, and with knowledge of the state of public services and benefits abroad I'm tempted to take the soft touch stories with a pinch of salt.

For the record: I am an immigrant who's been living here for over 10 years. I'm enjoying it too (otherwise I'd have left). Despite the poor public services...