It has been claimed that over 100,000 Polish workers have returned to their home country from the UK this year.

The currently slow economy and firms tightening their recruitment strategies have been cited as major factors in this development.

Following a relaxing of EU rules four years ago, the UK's saw an influx of Polish migrants settling in the country to work.

Phil Woolas, Borden and immigration minister, explained: "It would appear an estimated 100,000 Polish workers have left over the past year. Businesses need skilled workers from countries like Poland to help them grow."

However, he furthered that the country has to "balance needs of the economy" with and managing the growth of the population.

In 2004, the Office for National Statistics reported that over 400,000 Polish people - including workers, visitors and students - entered the UK within a three-month timeframe.