Combining Internal Migration Data from Different Sources

James Raymer, University of Southampton
Peter W.F. Smith, University of Southampton
Corrado Giulietti, University of Southampton

At present, the publicly available internal migration data in England and Wales are limited due to differences in sources, availability, quality and measurement. In this paper, we present a framework and statistical model for combining (incomplete) annual National Health Service registration data with (auxiliary) decennial census and annual Labour Force Survey data to predict age- and sex-specific interregional migration flows by ethnicity, economic activity and education. More detailed and current information on migration flows is needed so that local governments have the means to improve their planning policies directed at supplying particular social services or at influencing levels of migration. Also, this information is needed for understanding population redistribution of specific groups in relation to areas with, for example, high unemployment, high costs of living or high immigrant concentrations.