EU nationals account for three-quarters of those who have returned to their own country. 

This is no doubt partly due to a reaction to the Brexit referendum for it has caused anxiety and uncertainty among EU workers. 

But the fall is also due – says the Office for National Statistics – to economic changes across the EU. 

It is clear that our businesses need to prepare for an era when migration is lower and will have to find ways of recruiting British workers. This is no bad thing. 

Workers from the EU have done well in Britain, often appreciated for their work ethic and skills. 

But history teaches us that immigration comes in waves and often diminishes without the host country grinding to a standstill as some have gloomily predicted. 

Businesses in the UK may find they need to offer more vocational training, better wages and better conditions to British employees. 

In doing this, rather than relying on the imported skills and modest expectations of workers from other European countries, they will be doing their bit to make post-Brexit Britain a success. 

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A Charter For Shoplifters

Police in Nottinghamshire may stop investigating “low priority” crimes such as shoplifting. 

This is in response to their dissatisfaction with their funding. 

County Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping says: “Is shoplifting as important as investigating a serious sexual assault? It is not. 

“So there are jobs that we do at the moment that will have to take a lower priority. If people report shoplifting will the police come? Probably not.” 

Shoplifters in Nottingham will be immensely cheered by this news while small businesses will be immensely disappointed. 

Any crime is a serious one to the victim. At the very least the police should demonstrate a willingness to take these incidents seriously. 

They have a role to play in crime prevention and a police presence will deter thieves. 

We hear so much about community policing but where is the community spirit in the Nottinghamshire police force? 

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No more burnt offerings

Biscuits and crisps are to become lighter in colour with a reduction in cooking temperatures. 

It is to reduce the risk of cancer posed by burnt food.

Henceforth your favourite biccie must be considered “pale but interesting.”