‘Restoring control at borders not a betrayal of Labour values’, home secretary to say – as she sets out immigration shake-up
Home Secretary Defends Immigration Reforms as ‘Labour Values Embodied’
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has declared that regaining authority over border management is consistent with Labour’s foundational principles, despite recent political challenges. In a speech delivered to the left-leaning think tank IPPR, she emphasized the need to maintain control over the immigration process, positioning it as a critical step for her party’s future strategy.
The address follows Labour’s significant loss in the Gorton and Denton by-election, which has prompted internal debates about the party’s direction. Mahmood argued that shifting further leftward would be detrimental, advocating instead for a balanced approach that preserves order without compromising compassion.
Sky News has reported that the government’s tightened regulations have already saved nearly £400 million in asylum-related expenses. This comes after a targeted effort to prevent tourists from exploiting the UK’s immigration framework, resulting in a notable reduction in irregular arrivals. The financial impact is part of a broader strategy to streamline the system and reduce taxpayer burden.
A Middle Ground Between Extremes
Speaking at the IPPR event, Mahmood outlined her vision as a compromise between two opposing views. On one side, she contrasted with Reform leader Nigel Farage’s stance of completely restricting entry, while on the other, she challenged Green Party leader Zack Polanski’s idealistic proposal for open borders. Her plan, she argued, represents a pragmatic middle path.
“Restoring order and control at our borders is not a betrayal of Labour values; it is their realization,” Mahmood stated. “Without this, any ambitions of a Labour government will remain unfulfilled.”
Under the proposed changes, individuals granted asylum will face periodic reassessments of their status every 30 months, replacing the current five-year period before eligibility for indefinite leave. This shift aims to ensure that only those with valid claims receive support, with illegal workers facing removal and loss of financial assistance.
Conditional Support and EU Law Adjustments
The new policy marks a departure from the statutory obligations under EU law, which previously required support for all asylum seekers regardless of their compliance. By implementing conditional support, the government now prioritizes those adhering to the rules, aligning with the approach observed in Denmark.
During a recent visit to Denmark, Mahmood noted how the social democratic administration there successfully reduced asylum applications to their lowest level in four decades. The country’s method of expediting rejected claims and discouraging irregular arrivals has inspired her own reforms.
Warning on Far-Right Mobilization
In her speech, Mahmood warned that unchecked migration has fueled anxiety among the public. She described how perceptions of loss of control can lead to fear, which in turn fosters ethno-nationalism and empowers far-right narratives. “A loss of control breeds fear,” she said, “and fear narrows the vision of what this country stands for.”
She further criticized the Green Party’s migration policies as unrealistic, accusing their leader of encouraging unauthorized crossings and increasing financial pressure on taxpayers. “A party leader seeking national office should not be seen aiding migrants on perilous journeys,” she added, highlighting the need for accountability.
The reforms, effective from June, also target specific nationalities, including Nicaraguan and Saint Lucian citizens, who will now require visit visas to enter the UK. This expansion of controls is estimated to have prevented over 6,000 asylum claims and saved more than £370 million since July 2024.
As the government continues its efforts to reshape immigration, Mahmood’s proposals aim to reconcile Labour’s progressive ideals with the necessity of control, ensuring a system that is both fair and effective.
