Migrants seeking to stay in the UK will encounter stricter regulations, with a requirement to attain a high level of English proficiency, as announced by Shabana Mahmood. These changes are part of the Home Secretary’s proposals unveiled at the Labour party conference, her first significant address in this position.
The proposed reforms aim to overhaul the criteria for obtaining indefinite leave to remain, the primary pathway to UK citizenship, now linking it to maintaining a clean criminal record, engaging in community service, and fulfilling National Insurance obligations. A public consultation on these adjustments will be initiated later this year.
Labour has drawn a clear distinction between the government’s stance and Nigel Farage’s pledge to eliminate settled status for non-EU migrants, a move criticized by Keir Starmer as discriminatory and unethical. In her speech, Mahmood is anticipated to express concerns about the transformation of patriotism into a form of ethno-nationalism, emphasizing the importance of secure borders, fair migration policies, and safe communities in upholding a welcoming and tolerant society. She also warns party members that her decisions may not always align with their preferences.
Reflecting on her parents’ immigration journey to the UK, Mahmood argues that the acceptance of migrants is contingent upon their contributions to local communities. The proposed modifications could tie indefinite leave to remain to factors such as National Insurance payments, absence of welfare reliance, a clean criminal history, and community involvement. The government plans to seek feedback on these adjustments within the year.
