Community

BuyAssociation Editor's Blog

A shortage of Polish plumbers - 23 November 2007

Posted by Paul Collins No comments

As controversy over the numbers of immigrants in the UK continues to grow, particularly given the recent revelation that large numbers of illegal immigrants are working in the security industry, it seems almost impossible that in years to come we will be lamenting the passing of the days when it was easy to find a good Polish plumber.

Without wanting to edge too much into the realms of cliché, this is a distinct possibility according to a leading economics correspondent in the Guardian. Ashley Seager points out that the wave of economic migrants that have been coming to the UK in recent years could just as easily disappear again should they spot a better deal, better wages or better conditions elsewhere.

And ironically, it is the investments being made by the British public that are making this more of a possibility every day. The money being poured in to buying property in the new regions of Eastern Europe is helping the economies of these fledgling free markets to develop quickly. In fact, they are developing at a rate that will soon mean that many economic migrants are able to return home to work for wages that, combined with a lower cost of living than the UK, will be equivalent to what they may earn in Western Europe. This will allow them to return to family life quicker than anticipated.

In Poland, for example, many of the properties being bought by Brits in Warsaw are intended to be let out to the increasing numbers of Poles making their way to work in the capital as inward investment improves prospects and conditions. This in turn fuels the influx of businesses to the region, and a virtuous circle of investment is created.

While this is great for investors and the local population alike, it may mean that we will soon be complaining about having to rely on the expensive and shoddy workmanship and unreliable attendance of British plumbers.


Keep blogs friendly, read our posting policy for guidelines.

Sorry, comments on this post are closed.

Found an offensive/inappropriate comment? Please report it.

Discounted Airport Parking - available across the UK

Holiday home insurance with Staysure - the over 50's experts

Find your perfect holiday home - over 250,000 homes worldwide to chose from

© Copyright Buy Associates Ltd

All circumstances vary. BuyAssociation provides general advice for guidance purposes only. It is strongly recommended that you seek professional advice before making any purchase.


 


Browse our articles written by leading industry experts:

Overseas Property Buying Guides

UK Property Guides

Gardens and Interiors

Cosmetic Surgery Fact Sheets

Looking Good Guides

Money

Business

Community

Travel