Birth rate drops to record low in England and Wales

The birth rate in England and Wales fell to the lowest level since records began nearly 90 years ago, according to official data that highlights Britain’s demographic challenges, Report informs via Financial Times.

The total fertility rate dropped to 1.44 children per woman in 2023, its lowest value since records began in 1938, the Office for National Statistics said on Monday. The current rate is well below the 2.1 children per woman that is considered necessary to maintain a stable population in developed countries without migration.

In England and Wales, it has been declining steadily since 2010. Falling birth numbers could lead to a shrinking working age in the decades ahead, adding pressure on the public finances and economic growth, according to analysts.

Jonathan Portes, professor of economics and public policy at King’s College London, said that in the short term lower births reduce spending pressure on schools, childcare and child benefits. But “over the longer term, it will, of course, mean fewer workers to support a growing elderly population”, he added.