Shabana Mahmood has strongly urged Keir Starmer to dismiss one of her ministers, sparking tension with No10.
The Home Secretary was angered by Mike Tapp’s article advocating for a relaxation of immigration rules for migrant care workers without her approval. Tapp argued that care workers should not have to wait 15 years to qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), a change that is under consideration.
Despite the Home Secretary’s request for Tapp’s dismissal for breaching the Ministerial Code, No10 has declined to remove the immigration minister, indicating a potential clash between the PM and the Home Office.
In response to the backlash against the stringent migration overhaul, the Home Secretary and her team are reportedly exploring an exception to the rules. This move follows Tapp’s alleged appropriation of ideas from the Home Secretary’s team to advance his own agenda for a role in the new administration.
Andy Burnham, the prospective Prime Minister, is contemplating modifications to various proposals included in the migration reform. The proposed changes to ILR rules, including retrospective application, have sparked widespread criticism.
The potential extension of the qualification period to 15 years for care workers arriving post-Covid has raised concerns, as it would require them to find a new sponsor every job change, potentially leading to staff shortages in the sector.
Over 100 Labour MPs have urged Starmer to reconsider the proposed changes, with concerns raised by individuals like Lydia Kabute, a care worker from Kenya, questioning the rationale behind extending the waiting period.
Trade union Unison has condemned the proposed rule change, warning of its negative impact on the social care crisis, as migrant staff play a significant role in the sector.
While the current requirement for settled status stands at five years, it is set to increase to 10 years, with exceptions for NHS workers, high earners, and volunteers, and penalties for benefit claimants and illegal immigrants, as outlined by Ms. Mahmood.
Ms. Mahmood asserts that her reforms aim to establish a compassionate yet stringent immigration system, emphasizing the importance of control and fairness.
Attempts to reach Mr. Tapp for comment by The Mirror have been made.
