In some parts of London, Polish is the unofficial language. Polish plumbers and waitresses have become ubiquitous, forcing down wages for British workers. "The British government was shocked by the number of immigrants that came from Eastern Europe", states Times journalist Antony Browne. "It was twenty times as much as they were expecting." In the City too, traditional home of Oxbridge graduates, Poles are making their presence felt. More and more are climbing the upper echelons of management. So many immigrants have come to London that Poles are now competing against each other for jobs. "Previously I earned £10 an hour, today only £6", complains one. Those without the necessary skills end up homeless and destitute. "Life is not all that rosy here", states student Sylvia. "Many feel ashamed to go back home".