Shabana Mahmood has revealed that migrants seeking to stay in the UK will now encounter stricter regulations, including a requirement to attain a high level of English proficiency. These adjustments are part of the proposed changes by the Home Secretary, who is set to address the Labour party conference in her inaugural major speech in the role.
The outlined plans aim to revamp the criteria for indefinite leave to remain, the primary pathway to UK citizenship that enables migrants to reside and work in the country unrestrictedly. Among the suggestions are linking indefinite leave to remain to maintaining a clean criminal record, engaging in community volunteer work, and contributing to National Insurance. A consultation on these modifications is scheduled to commence later this year.
The Labour party has emphasized a clear distinction between the government’s proposals and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s promise to eliminate settled status for non-EU migrants, a policy strongly criticized by Keir Starmer as discriminatory and unethical.
During her address, Ms. Mahmood is expected to express concerns about the transformation of patriotism into a form of ethno-nationalism. She will advocate for secure borders, equitable migration policies, and safe streets as vital elements of an inclusive, tolerant society, while cautioning party members that her decisions may not always align with their preferences.
Drawing from her parents’ migration experience, Ms. Mahmood will underline the importance of migrants’ contributions to local communities in fostering acceptance. The potential modifications could condition “indefinite leave to remain” on factors such as paying National Insurance, refraining from claiming benefits, maintaining a spotless criminal record, and engaging in community service. The government will seek feedback on these proposals throughout the year.