Robots could replace low-skilled migrant workers

Details of the fallout from the Brexit vote may take months to become clear, but there are concerns the UK pulling out of the European Union could lead to the loss of many low skilled migrant workers. A report from UK think-tank the Resolution Foundation, claims that shortfalls in low skilled migrant workers from Europe could lead to a surge in robots to take their place. The authors say: ‘Given the UK’s poor productivity growth in recent years, and the potential for further economic disruption related to Brexit, it seems fair to say we need more robots, not fewer’. The Think-tank report says that such changes could potentially offer new opportunities for automation to counter economic disruption and boost the UK’s flagging productivity. Summarising the findings, author Adam Corlett explained: ‘Looking at those sectors with the highest proportion of EU migrants, we find that some – such as cleaning and domestic staffing – face relatively low prospects for automation, while others – such as agriculture, food manufacturing and food and drink services – may see new pressures or opportunities to automate.’ The latest report from the Resolution Foundation states: ‘Given the UK’s poor productivity growth in recent years, and the potential for further economic disruption related to Brexit, it seems fair to say we need more robots, not fewer’ The report states: ‘Given the UK’s poor productivity growth in recent years, and the potential for further economic disruption related to Brexit, it seems fair to say we need more robots, not fewer.’ However, the report also highlights that in a changing labour market there are always losers, and that policy needs to keep pace.