The UK government will soon introduce a new system. Consequently, migrants must actively prove their contribution. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is announcing this plan. She will outline the policy in her Labour conference speech. Therefore, the path to permanent residency is changing significantly. This new framework establishes an Earned Settlement Status. Furthermore, it creates a clear divide with rival political parties.
Currently, migrants can apply for indefinite leave after five years. This status allows permanent living and working rights. However, the government wants to strengthen integration requirements. Under the new proposals, legal migrants must meet strict conditions. Firstly, they must learn English to a high standard. Secondly, they need a clean criminal record. Finally, they must volunteer within their local community.
Moreover, the qualification period will double in length. Migrants will now need ten years to qualify. This change aims to cut overall immigration numbers. The government consulted on this idea back in May. This policy directly contrasts with Reform UK’s stance. Reform wants to abolish indefinite leave entirely. Instead, they propose temporary five-year visas for all.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently criticized Reform’s policy. He called their approach “racist” and “immoral”. Chancellor Rachel Reeves strongly echoed his comments. She stated that deporting legal workers is unacceptable. She also affirmed that such policies are indeed racist. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage quickly responded. He accused Labour of not believing in border controls.
Ministers clearly want migrants to integrate fully. Therefore, the Earned Settlement Status will have several pillars. Applicants must make National Insurance contributions. They cannot claim any benefits payments. They must also give back to their communities. The government calls this concept “fair migration”. They believe secure borders support a tolerant nation.
However, some foreign nationals could get faster settlement. This would depend on their specific skills or contributions. The government hopes this system feels more fair. The main theme of Labour’s conference is challenging Reform UK. Reform currently leads in national opinion polls. Mahmood will also address this political threat directly.
She will warn about a rise in ethno-nationalism. She will argue for an open and generous Britain. Furthermore, she will tell party members they might not like all her decisions. She will caution that working people could turn away from Labour. They might seek solace in Reform’s false promises. Mahmood will also share her personal background.
She will talk about her parents’ experience in the UK. She believes acceptance depends on community contribution. Additionally, she will discuss being a shoplifting victim. This happened while working in her family’s corner shop. This experience motivates her to tackle retail crime. She will even launch a new “winter of action” scheme. This initiative will partner police with local businesses.
Ultimately, the government is reshaping immigration policy. The new system demands more from migrants. It requires a longer wait and deeper integration. This fundamental shift establishes an Earned Settlement Status. The political battle over immigration is now intensifying.
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