Migration and residential social change : a longitudinal analysis of migration flows into, out-of and within London, 1971-1981 / Migration et changement social résidentiel : une analyse longitudinale des mouvements migratoires de Londres et vers Londres ainsi qu'à l'intérieur de Londres, 1971-1981

Abstract

This paper analyses the role of migration in residential social change in London during the intercensal decade 1971-81 using data from the 1 % Longitudinal Survey. It compares the socio-economic composition of out-migrants from, and in-migrants to London with the changing socio-economic composition of continuing residents, and it assesses the relative importance of migration and in-situ social change. It shows that while the incidence of out-migration of professional and managerial workers from London is high, this is partly offset by high levels of inmigration into these groups, especially among young people who were economically inactive in 1971 but who were classed as managers or professional workers in 1981. There is also a high level of internal occupational change as new entrants into the labour force replace departures. As a result of these changes, the occupational structure of London has not experienced a downwards shift which would be expected on the basis of out-migration alone.