UK Pushes Tougher Rules For Migrants Amid Reform Party Pressure

The Labour government has unveiled plans to tighten the rules for migrants seeking to stay permanently in the United Kingdom. The move, announced at the party’s annual conference in Liverpool, comes as Reform UK surges in opinion polls, threatening Labour’s grip on public support.

New Requirements For Permanent Stay

Under the proposed changes, migrants who wish to remain indefinitely will need to meet stricter conditions. They must hold a job, avoid claiming benefits, contribute to social security, volunteer in their communities, and maintain a clean criminal record. Language proficiency will also be key, with new expectations that migrants achieve a high standard of English.

This marks a shift from the current system, where individuals can qualify for indefinite leave to remain after five years with family in Britain or ten years on legal visas, with no such extra conditions.

Labour’s Response To Reform UK

The changes reflect Labour’s attempt to draw a clear line between itself and Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Reform has promised to scrap “indefinite leave to remain” altogether, forcing migrants to reapply for visas every five years. Prime Minister Keir Starmer blasted Reform’s plan as “racist” and “immoral,” warning it would “tear the country apart.”

Still, critics within Labour worry the party is shifting closer to Reform’s stance. “We need our representatives to be more bold in the values we hold, not more like Reform,” said 19-year-old party member Matthew Atkinson.

Cultural And Social Backlash

The announcement has sparked backlash from over 100 organisations, who urged Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to stop “scapegoating” migrants and introducing policies that could cause harm. Mahmood, the daughter of Pakistani immigrants, countered that failing to act on irregular migration risks alienating working-class voters and driving them into Reform’s arms.

Meanwhile, migrants continue to attempt dangerous Channel crossings, with over 32,000 people arriving this year alone. The government confirmed 895 arrivals in one day last weekend, and at least 27 deaths have been recorded in 2025 from these journeys.

Political And Economic Context

Labour’s tougher line on migration comes as the UK wrestles with high borrowing costs, stubborn inflation, and tight government budgets. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves rejected claims from Reform and the Conservatives that the economy is “broken,” calling instead for faith in Labour’s leadership.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also reminded members that the political contest ahead is not just about immigration, but about Labour versus what she described as a “chaotic right-wing ideology.”

The Bigger Picture

Migration has long been a flashpoint in British politics, but with Reform UK topping national polls, it has become a defining issue for Labour. The question now is whether tougher rules will win back voters or deepen divisions within the party and across the country.

{Source:EWN }

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com