THE cause of social harmony is done no service if Government ministers refuse to dip deep into Treasury coffers to provide the funds needed by councils and other public bodies to cope with the influx of immigrants.
Pressure mounts on crucial services such as schools, housing, hospitals and transport unless they are financed to handle the greater burden that an increase in population inevitably brings about.
In those circumstances it is small wonder that resentment builds up if long-established citizens have to compete with newcomers for education, accommodation, health care or even a seat on the bus.
For too long the chattering classes have shied away from this debate, fearing the tag of "racist" if they admitted that immigration can cause strains.
But our society has grown up since the days when immigration was seen in such simple terms.
There is now widespread acceptance of the numerous communities that exist in Birmingham and elsewhere, each bringing a vibrancy and variety that enriches our lives.
There is also a realisation that inconvenient truths cannot be swept away if cohesion is to to be nurtured.
Councils and health trusts should not be given open cheques: they must manage their budgets prudently.
But nor can their needs be ignored.
To do so would fan the flames of intolerance.