5.1 The United Kingdom population is projected to increase from an estimated 61.4 million in 2008, reaching 65.6 million in 2018, rising above 70 million in 2029 and reaching 71.6 million by 2033. Over the 25 year period this equates to a 17 per cent increase – the same as was projected in the 2006-based projections.
5.2 Figure 9 illustrates the projected change in the populations of the four countries of the United Kingdom from 2008 to 2033. It shows that the populations of England, Wales and Northern Ireland are all projected to grow more quickly than that of Scotland. By 2033 England’s population is projected to be 18 per cent higher than in 2008, Northern Ireland’s is projected to be 14 per cent higher and Wales’ 12 per cent higher. During the same period Scotland’s population is projected to grow by 7 per cent.
Figure 9 Comparison of population change for UK countries, 2008-2033