SPRING OF DISCONTENT

The UK is grappling with a series of economic and humanitarian crises; a controversial anti-immigration bill adds fuel to the fire

- DIYA MATHEW

OVERCAST SKIES, low temperatures and frequent showers make it feel like the English winter is dragging its feet, refusing to make way for spring. High-street clothing stores sport spring collections in shades of lavender, pastel pink and teal, but on the streets, people are covered in long coats, dark bomber jackets, and woollen caps and scarves.

The bleak weather somewhat reflects the general mood in the country. Though the coronation of King Charles is less than a month away, there is no festive feel in the air.

Instead, politicians and the public are preoccupied with a multitude of challenges, particularly double-digit inflation and the cost-of-living crisis.

In recent months, the country has witnessed strikes the likes of which have not been seen in 40 years. Teachers, public transport staff, postal workers, nurses, doctors and border staff, among others, are demanding higher pay and better working conditions. The fallout of Brexit and Covid-19 had hit them hard.

The economic crisis has also exacerbated two interlinked problems: homelessness and excessive migration.

Official figures released in February showed that homelessness in England had risen by 26 per cent in a year, because of the “spiralling cost-of-living crisis”.

Following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021 and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, there has been a massive influx of refugees into the UK.