Labour is preparing to introduce tougher rules for migrants applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will confirm the changes during her keynote address at the party’s annual conference.
Higher Standards for Applicants
Under the new proposals, applicants will be required to meet stricter English language standards, prove consistent national insurance contributions, hold secure employment, and maintain a clean criminal record.
Drawing a Line Against Reform UK
The reforms are intended to separate Labour’s position from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, which has called for existing ILR holders who have not applied for citizenship to be deported. Labour has dismissed those plans as extreme.
Starmer Rejects “Racist” Claims
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has criticised Reform’s stance, branding its immigration policy “racist.” He said Labour’s alternative balances compassion with a controlled and fair system.
Mahmood’s Hardline Pledge
In her speech, Mahmood is expected to present herself as a “tough Labour home secretary.” She will tell party members that her choices may not always be popular, but will be essential for the country’s future.
Migration at Record Highs
The debate comes against a backdrop of record legal migration to the UK. The Office for National Statistics reported that net migration between 2022 and 2024 reached the highest levels since records began in the 1940s.
Concerns Over Public Services
Critics argue that a growing number of migrants qualifying for ILR could strain housing, welfare, and public services. Rising living costs have added to public concerns about pressure on state resources.
Reform’s Financial Warning
Reform UK claims the potential financial impact could run into hundreds of billions of pounds. Policy head Zia Yusuf has warned that 800,000 migrants could qualify for ILR between 2026 and 2030.
Claims of Welfare Dependency
Yusuf also alleged that “half of them will never work, ever.” However, Labour has challenged these remarks, pointing out that they were based on a thinktank report later withdrawn for inaccuracies.
Considering Longer Qualifying Period
Labour is also consulting on extending the ILR qualifying period from the current five years to 10. The party has yet to announce when a final decision will be made on the proposal.
Balancing Fairness and Firmness
According to party insiders, the reforms aim to reassure voters who believe the system has been too lax while avoiding the harsher approach pushed by Reform UK.
Strategy to Neutralise Migration Debate
Labour hopes the changes will neutralise immigration as a campaign weapon for Reform and strengthen its position with voters ahead of the next general election.
Winter Crackdown on Shoplifting
Alongside the immigration announcement, Mahmood will launch a “winter of action” against shoplifting, promising targeted police operations during the Christmas shopping season.
Retailers Demand Action
The policy comes after retailers warned of sharp rises in theft during the festive period, with calls for tougher enforcement to protect staff and customers.
Immigration and Crime Focus
Mahmood is expected to argue that her dual approach to immigration and crime demonstrates Labour’s readiness to govern with fairness, discipline, and a commitment to law and order.
A Defining Speech
Her conference address is seen as a pivotal moment, both for her political profile and for Labour’s strategy to distance itself from Reform’s hardline agenda while presenting a credible governing alternative.
