o what extent did governent policies on immigration change in the years 1945-79

Introduction:

Between 1945 and 1979, British government policies on immigration evolved from being largely open and permissive to becoming increasingly restrictive and controlled. Initially, post-war policies encouraged immigration from the Commonwealth to support labour shortages and economic recovery. However, as immigration increased and public concern grew, successive governments introduced increasingly tight controls. Despite some efforts to improve race relations, immigration policy during this period shifted significantly towards restriction and regulation, suggesting a clear change in direction.

Point 1: Early Post-War Openness and Encouragement of Commonwealth Immigration

Evidence:

• The British Nationality Act (1948) gave all Commonwealth citizens the right to settle in Britain as full British citizens.

• The arrival of the Empire Windrush in 1948 symbolised the start of large-scale Caribbean migration to Britain.

Explain:
This policy reflected a belief in a shared imperial identity and the need for labour during post-war reconstruction. The government did not initially place restrictions on immigration from the Commonwealth.

Counter:
Although the policy was open, the government offered little integration support, leading to social tension and resentment from some parts of the public.

Link:
Government policy in the immediate post-war years was liberal and inclusive, representing a stark contrast to later restrictions.

Point 2: Increasing Restrictions from the 1960s Onwards

Evidence:

• The Commonwealth Immigrants Act (1962) ended free entry for Commonwealth citizens unless they had a job lined up.

• The Commonwealth Immigrants Act (1968) further tightened rules, responding to fears about Asian refugees from Kenya.

• The Immigration Act (1971) introduced the concept of "patriality," prioritising those with UK-born parents or grandparents.

Explain:
These policies reflected growing public concern and racial tensions, especially after events like the Notting Hill riots and Enoch Powell’s speech. The government responded with increasingly strict controls, shifting away from openness.

Counter:
Supporters argued these measures were necessary to maintain social cohesion and reduce racial tension. Critics, however, saw them as racially discriminatory.

Link:
By the early 1970s, immigration policy had shifted dramatically, with strong emphasis on limitation and control, indicating a significant change from the 1940s.

Point 3: Introduction of Race Relations Policies Alongside Immigration Control

vidence:

• The Race Relations Acts (1965, 1968, 1976) aimed to combat discrimination in housing, employment, and public services.

• The 1976 Act established the Commission for Racial Equality.

Explain:
These laws suggest that while immigration was being restricted, the government was also attempting to promote racial harmony and integrate existing immigrant communities.

Counter:
The simultaneous tightening of immigration controls led many to argue that race relations legislation was undermined by exclusionary immigration laws, sending mixed messages.

Link:
Though race relations laws showed a degree of progress, they often came after public outcry, and did not reverse the more restrictive immigration stance.

Conclusion:

Government immigration policies between 1945 and 1979 changed significantly, moving from an open-door approach to one of increasing control and restriction. While early policies encouraged Commonwealth immigration, public pressure and racial tensions led to strict legislation from the 1960s onwards. Although race relations laws aimed to combat discrimination, they did not offset the broader trend of restricting immigration. Therefore, it is accurate to say that government policy underwent a major shift, reflecting changing public attitudes, economic concerns, and political priorities.