There are certainly lotz of them. And as a consequence, as we report today, the University of Lotz is opening an outlet in London to allow them to study for degree courses in their native language. According to some estimates, as many as 700,000 Polish citizens have come to Britain to work since their country entered the EU three years ago. Nor are they all plumbers or other artisans of the building trades. They are attracted to Britain by historical ties, the English language and a comparatively open-minded attitude to immigration. While the overall economics of migration might be debated, in this instance the visitors do much for prosperity and make distinctly modest demands from the welfare state.

They are also enriching our culture. The Polish impact has been multiple and varied. It has led to notably higher attendances for the (Roman Catholic) Church, some much needed competition in the home improvement sector, and an explosion in bars, delis and clubs which serve the particular but enticing tastes of those from Warsaw and Gdansk. There has been a boom in Polish-language newspapers with an encouraging revival in the use of the letters k and z. Relatively few Poles intend to labour in Britain for the whole of their lives, most want to earn money, enhance their skills and become more fluent in the world’s leading language.

All of which is welcome. Portugal might be Britain’s oldest ally but Poland is a distinctly natural partner as well. The University of Lotz will doubtless do brisk business in the capital. It is doubtful, though, that it will be swamped by applicants born and bred in Britain who are confident enough to embark upon a degree in Polish.