Will Mahmood Require Migrants to Earn Settled Status?

The UK government is set to introduce new conditions for migrants seeking indefinite leave to remain, emphasising contributions to society. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will announce these proposals at the Labour conference, which include learning English, maintaining a clean criminal record, and volunteering in local communities. This policy aims to draw a distinction between Labour and other political parties like Reform UK, which advocates for more stringent immigration measures.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Migrants must meet new criteria to gain indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
• Proposals include English proficiency, clean criminal records, and community volunteering.
• The period for applying for indefinite leave to remain may increase from five to ten years.
• Labour aims to differentiate its immigration policy from Reform UK's stricter stance.
• Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called Reform UK's policy "racist" and "immoral."

New Proposals for Migrants

The upcoming announcement by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood marks a significant shift in the UK’s immigration policy. Under Labour’s new proposals, legal migrants will need to demonstrate their integration into British society to qualify for indefinite leave to remain.

These new requirements include:

• Achieving a high standard of English proficiency.
• Having a clean criminal record.
• Volunteering in the community to show commitment to contributing positively.
• Making National Insurance contributions without relying on state benefits.

Comparing Current and Proposed Policies

Currently, migrants can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years, allowing them the right to live, work, and study in the UK permanently. However, under Labour’s proposals, this waiting period will be extended to ten years. The party argues that this change will promote a more integrated and responsible migrant population.

In contrast, Reform UK has proposed abolishing indefinite leave to remain altogether, suggesting that migrants reapply every five years for their visa status. This plan has received criticism from Labour, which fears it could force long-term residents to leave their homes and families.

Labour's Stance on Migration and Integration

Labour’s approach to migration is highlighted by its emphasis on integration and contribution. Shabana Mahmood will argue that the acceptance of migrants hinges on their ability to give back to their communities. She will illustrate this point with personal anecdotes, including her parents' journey to the UK and her experiences as a child working in her family’s corner shop.

Mahmood will also address concerns about rising nationalism, cautioning that patriotism should not devolve into ethno-nationalism. She aims to position Labour as a party that supports "fair migration" while ensuring secure borders, promoting a vision of an "open, generous, tolerant" society.

The Political Landscape

Labour's new immigration policy is also a strategic move to counter the rising popularity of Reform UK, which has emerged as a significant player in national opinion polls. By drawing a clear line between its policies and those of Reform, Labour hopes to reassure voters that it can manage immigration effectively without resorting to harsh measures.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has been vocal in his criticism of Reform UK's proposals, labelling them as "racist" and "immoral." This rhetoric highlights the party's commitment to maintaining a more humane approach to migration.

Community Involvement and Economic Contributions

The new proposals not only aim to ensure that migrants integrate into society but also highlight their economic contributions. By requiring migrants to make National Insurance contributions and volunteer, Labour is reinforcing the idea that migrants should actively participate in the economy and local communities.

Some foreign nationals may even be eligible for earlier settlement based on their skills or contributions, further encouraging a merit-based system that rewards those who enhance the UK’s workforce.

Reactions and Implications

The proposed changes are likely to evoke mixed reactions. Advocates argue that these measures will foster a sense of belonging and community among migrants, while critics may view them as overly stringent and exclusionary.

As the discussion around migration intensifies, it remains crucial to consider the broader implications of these policies. How will they affect the diverse communities across the UK? Will increased requirements deter skilled migrants from moving to the UK? These questions will be pivotal as the Labour party navigates its immigration strategy in the lead-up to the next election.

Labour's 'Winter of Action' Against Shoplifting

In addition to immigration reforms, Mahmood will launch a "winter of action" initiative aimed at tackling shoplifting. This initiative will see police forces collaborate with local businesses to address theft, which has been a growing concern for retailers across the country.

The new strategy reflects Labour's commitment to not only managing immigration but also ensuring the safety and security of local businesses and communities. It highlights the party's focus on practical solutions that address pressing societal issues while maintaining a balanced perspective on migration policy.

The Future of Migration Policy in the UK

As the Labour party outlines its new immigration proposals, the future of migration policy in the UK hangs in the balance. The debate around integrating migrants and ensuring they contribute to society is complex, with valid points on both sides. The challenge will be to find a solution that promotes fairness and inclusivity while addressing the concerns of British citizens.

With the upcoming proposals set to reshape the landscape of migration in the UK, the focus will undoubtedly remain on how these changes will affect communities, economies, and the very fabric of British society.

FAQs

What are the new conditions for migrants in the UK?

Migrants will need to learn English to a high standard, maintain a clean criminal record, and volunteer in their communities to qualify for indefinite leave to remain under the new Labour proposals.

How long will it take to gain indefinite leave to remain under Labour's proposals?

The period for applying for indefinite leave to remain is proposed to increase from five years to ten years, according to Labour's new immigration policy.

What is Reform UK's stance on indefinite leave to remain?

Reform UK plans to abolish indefinite leave to remain, suggesting that migrants should reapply for their visa status every five years, which Labour criticises as potentially harmful to long-term residents.

How does Labour define 'fair migration'?

Labour's concept of 'fair migration' includes ensuring that migrants contribute positively to society, through work, community involvement, and adherence to legal standards.

What is the 'winter of action' initiative?

The 'winter of action' initiative is a new Labour strategy aimed at tackling shoplifting through collaboration between police forces and local businesses, addressing rising concerns among retailers.