Labour's Immigration Stance Faces Internal Challenge
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh declines to endorse specific reform proposals amid reports of cabinet divisions over indefinite leave to remain.
Sarah Connor
Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh has repeatedly refused to back a specific Labour immigration reform proposal.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham now considers exempting care workers from these proposals. This potential exemption emerges amidst claims that 100 Labour MPs oppose the broader changes.
Ms. Fahnbulleh, when pressed, stated, "Don't put words in my mouth." She also told Sky News that the government needs an immigration system based on compassion and contribution. A government source, however, claims the minister clearly supported the policy and process in her interviews.
Don't put words in my mouth.
Ms. Fahnbulleh appeared to criticise Ms. Mahmood's proposals in a now-deleted online post. The post stated that prolonging the time people wait for settlement risks prolonging "the process of building cohesion."
Housing Secretary Angela Rayner downplayed reports of a Cabinet rift over the immigration proposals. She stated she was sure a fair policy would be decided after a consultation. Ministers also denied a split within the cabinet.
The Home Office argues that increasing the wait for indefinite leave to remain by up to 10 years for foreign care workers could result in a mass exodus from their jobs. Speculation mounts that Ms. Mahmood's proposal could be watered down to avoid a Labour rebellion.
A Government spokesman confirmed that reforms mean settlement must be earned and is not automatic. The spokesman added, "We are currently considering responses to our consultation on elements of these reforms."
The government states that 48,000 small boat crossing attempts have been prevented in the Channel since 2024.