Fact check: How has the white population percentage in London changed over the past decade?

1. Summary of the results

The white population percentage in London has undergone a change over the past decade, with a decrease from 59.8% in 2011 to 53.8% in 2021, as reported by the 2021 census ^[1]. This suggests that the white population percentage has declined over the past decade. However, it is essential to note that the white population still exceeds 50% of the population in London ^[2]. The demographics of London are complex, with 287 ethnic groups and nationalities represented, making it the most ethnically diverse region in the UK ^[3]. The white British population, in particular, has declined, with 36.8% of London residents identifying as white British ^[4]. The population of London has fluctuated over the decades, with a decline from 8.6 million in 1939 to 6.8 million in 1991, followed by a growth to 8.9 million in 2022 ^[5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources do not provide a direct answer to the question of how the white population percentage in London has changed over the past decade, instead offering information on population density, age profile, and components of change ^{[6] [7]}. Additionally, the long-term projections of the white British population, which is expected to decline from 73% to 57% by 2050 and become a minority by 2063, may be relevant to understanding the changing demographics of London ^[8]. The diversity of London's population is also highlighted, with ten of London's 33 boroughs having a majority non-white population ^[3]. It is crucial to consider these alternative viewpoints to gain a comprehensive understanding of the demographics of London. The sources also highlight the importance of considering the different categories of white populations, including white British, white Irish, and other white groups ^{[4] [2]}.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be considered neutral, as it only asks for information on the change in the white population percentage in London over the past decade. However, some sources may be presenting a biased view by focusing on the decline of the white British population or the increasing diversity of London ^{[4] [8]}. On the other hand, sources that report on the overall white population in London may be presenting a more balanced view ^{[1] [2]}. The Telegraph source ^[8] may be presenting a sensationalized view by reporting on the long-term decline of the white British population. The Trust for London sources ^{[7] [5]} may be presenting a more neutral and factual view by providing information on the demographics and population growth of London. Ultimately, it is essential to consider multiple sources and evaluate the potential biases and misinformation in each to form a comprehensive understanding of the topic ^{[6] [1] [7] [4] [2] [3] [8] [5]}.