Andy Burnham is facing mounting political pressure over Labour’s proposed immigration reforms as opposition grows within his own party and from rival politicians. The criticism comes ahead of the Immigration and Asylum Bill returning to the House of Commons, where several Labour MPs have threatened to oppose key parts of the legislation.
Reports indicate that nearly 80 Labour backbench MPs have signed a private letter urging Burnham to rethink the government’s approach. The group is calling for ministers to pause the proposed reforms and consult further before moving ahead. The growing backlash has also raised fresh questions about the future of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
One of the most controversial proposals would require most migrants to wait ten years, rather than five, before qualifying for indefinite leave to remain. The government also plans to apply the new rules retrospectively to some people already living in the United Kingdom. Several Labour MPs have expressed concern about both measures and warned they could vote against the bill unless changes are made.
The Scottish National Party has also criticised the proposals. SNP immigration spokesman Pete Wishart urged Burnham to abandon the plans, arguing they would reduce overseas recruitment for the NHS and the social care sector. He also warned that Scotland’s economy could suffer if fewer international workers are able to settle in the country.
Wishart said many overseas workers make valuable contributions to Scottish communities. He repeated the SNP’s long-standing call for immigration powers to be devolved to Scotland. He also backed the creation of a separate Scottish visa system. According to Wishart, Burnham should listen to concerns raised by Labour MPs as well as Scottish leaders before pressing ahead with the reforms.
The debate has also become increasingly political as Reform UK continues to campaign heavily on immigration. Critics claim Labour risks moving closer to Reform UK’s position by adopting stricter migration policies. Others argue the party could lose support among progressive voters if it continues with the current strategy.
Meanwhile, immigration has remained a major issue in Scotland following several protests linked to online misinformation. Reform UK deputy leader in Scotland Thomas Kerr urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and avoid relying on unverified claims circulating online. He also warned people not to target private homes or innocent residents during protests.
Police Scotland recently responded to several demonstrations in Glasgow. Officers made arrests during separate public disorder incidents. Police said false online information contributed to some of the protests. In one case, an innocent member of the public became the target because of mistaken identity. Another demonstration followed inaccurate claims about accommodation for asylum seekers. Police confirmed that investigations into those incidents remain ongoing.
Burnham’s office has not publicly responded to the latest criticism. However, the debate over Labour’s immigration policy is expected to intensify as Parliament continues examining the legislation. The outcome could shape both the government’s migration strategy and Labour’s political direction in the months ahead.
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