We often see posts here about statistics for visa issuing, etc. These might be useful for those interested. They do show some perspective :

http://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/populationandmigration/internationalmigration/bulletins/migrationstatisticsquarterlyreport/february2016

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/immigration-statistics-october-to-december-2015/family

Yes just goes to show that despite his promise to reduce net migration, Davit Cameron has increased it. Although he does of course contribute in a very small way improve the situation by making life so difficult by having the £18600 earnings limit. Imagine what that 617,000 figure would be if the £18600 was reduced. Imagine the flak if it went to 618,000 because a few extra UK nationals managed to bring a non EU spouse into the country.