Is Gordon Driving people to move overseas?

As record numbers of Britons leave the country permanently to live abroad, new research indicates that Gordon Brown might be responsible. A survey, commissioned by removals company Robinsons International, reveals that 15% of emigrants blame the government for driving them away from the UK.

What’s more, Gordon Brown got the vote in the wrong kind of election when it came to naming British personalities who emigrants will be most pleased to see the back of. While a quarter of respondents were most looking forward to waving goodbye to the Prime Minister, not far behind him was Tony Blair, followed by Victoria Beckham.

Is it more than a coincidence that recently, many of the least popular personalities – like the Beckhams or Tony Blair – have fallen off the celebrity radar? Could it be the celebrities are taking the hint?

The survey was carried out among UK adults planning to emigrate to Australia, Canada, New Zealand and USA, and showed that only the rising cost of living and loutish culture were ranked higher than the government in driving people away from the country. Pressure at work influenced 7% of people to make the move, but interestingly 76% had made plans to live abroad before finding a new job.

It’s not all doom and gloom though! Despite admitting that some aspects of British life won’t be missed, respondents cited the countryside, our proximity to Europe and even the weather, specifically our four distinct seasons, as things they’ll be saddest to leave behind.

According to the Office of National Statistics, Britain is experiencing its biggest exodus in nearly 50 years. Almost 4,000 Britons are relocating abroad each week; mostly within the Commonwealth, such as Australia, Canada and New Zealand. They are mainly young professionals and skilled workers aged 25-45.

Anthony Robinson, Managing Director of Robinsons International, comments: “It’s always interesting to see how trends change over the years, and perhaps not surprising that so many people are looking for the better standard of living offered by other countries. Even the most idyllic villages in Britain are under pressure from rising populations.

“Moving overseas is exciting, but it can seem pretty daunting. The secret of a smooth move is careful planning and getting help from a reputable company that knows the ropes, so customers can concentrate on the prospect of a new life in the sunshine!”

For information on moving overseas and an online quotation, visit robinsons-intl.com