UK Parliament Debate: Algerians are 18 times more likely to commit theft
During a UK parliamentary debate on immigration and integration held on May 21, 2025, Conservative MP Chris Philp cited data from the Office for National Statistics highlighting disparities in crime and economic inactivity among immigrant groups. He stated, “Afghans are 20 times more likely to commit sex offences than average. People of Congolese origin are 12 times more likely to commit violence, and Algerians are 18 times more likely to commit theft.”. The video of the full statement can be viewed on the House of Commons video portal here.
Conservative MP Chris Philp addressing the House of Commons on Wednesday 21 May 2025 on immigration issues.
Philp used the figures to argue for tighter restrictions on low-skilled immigration and to advocate for policies aimed at improving integration outcomes.
Opposition MP Jeremy Corbyn criticized the framing, warning against stigmatizing entire communities and emphasizing the contributions of migrants to sectors such as healthcare and education.
We unfortunately noted also that Moroccan hostile propagandist accounts and outlets mischaracterised these remarks. One widely shared post falsely claimed a British MP described Algeria as a regime that “steals Moroccan history, clothing, music, and cuisine.” This quote does not exist in the official record, which can be read in full on the UK Parliament’s page here, and viewed as video on the Parliament’s video portal. The Moroccan propaganda narrative distorts statistical remarks on crime rates in the UK into an accusation of cultural appropriation. This reframing is a clear propaganda technique aimed at inflaming regional tensions between Algeria and Morocco.
Abderrahmane Fares ✍️
