It said immigration was needed to help offset a slowing birth rate and ageing population, and it needed to find a balance between the number of Singaporeans and foreigners in order to sustain its rate of economic growth.

BBC: Rare mass rally over Singapore immigration plans

Mr Randall said his annual report, which is due out at the end of October, will highlight key demographic factors, including a falling birth rate and an ageing population.

BBC: Scotland's population falling

Although the mortality rate is predicted to continue declining, due to a growing and ageing population the number of deaths is expected to rise to about 182, 000 deaths by 2025.

BBC: 13,000 cancer deaths 'can be prevented'

There is concern over Italy's birth rate - the lowest in Europe - and the economic implications of an ageing population.

BBC: Italy profile

Some of this is due to an ageing population and some to a rising share of that population in the labour force: the so-called participation rate has jumped a percentage point, to 40%, while slipping for the population as a whole.

ECONOMIST: Older workers and the recession