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This important finding contradicts the argument that immigration is to 'blame' for pushing voters into the arms of the BNP. It suggests the opposite in fact, that where people have experience of living with migrants they are less likely to vote to the BNP.

The study finds, for example, that 9 out of 10 of the local authorities with the highest proportions of BNP votes had lower than average immigration. A possible explanation of the anomaly presented by Barking and Dagenham lies in other research findings showing that BNP focus and campaigning in certain areas may be playing a critical role. Even when all other characteristics are discounted, areas targeted by the BNP see higher vote shares going to the party.

Other findings show that:

Crime and unemployment appear to have little effect on BNP vote either way
Having a high level of qualifications reduces the likelihood that people will vote for the BNP
Social cohesion appears to matter - where people believe the population of their area tend to get along despite differing backgrounds, they are less likely to vote BNP
Voter turnout appears to be important - areas which have lower voter turn out appear to have higher proportions of people voting for the BNP. This may reflect the fact that people in these areas feel alienated by mainstream politics.

Commenting on the findings, ippr Co-Director Carey Oppenheim, said:

"This research provides solid evidence for the need to take seriously the slow-burning mixture of frustration, isolation and sense of powerlessness people are feeling in some communities. These are the triggers which make the siren call of extremist parties so compelling. What our findings can finally lay to rest is the mistaken popular belief that it is experiences of immigration which leads to people voting for the BNP."

Note to editors

For further information please contact Monica Evans m.evans@ippr.org / Tel: 0207 470 6112 / Mobile: 07753 719289

To read the study, Exploring the Roots of BNP Support, please visit www.ippr.org/publicationsandreports/publication.asp?id=743