Politics Weekly UK How dangerous are Labour’s asylum plans?
10 snips
Nov 19, 2025 
Gaby Hinsliff, a Guardian columnist and keen observer of Labour, joins Rafael Behr, also from the Guardian, to dissect controversial asylum plans proposed by Shabana Mahmood. They discuss the outrage from Labour MPs, potential policy changes, and the implications of Labour adopting tougher rhetoric on immigration. The conversation explores whether these measures will increase hostility or genuinely address concerns, alongside the political risks for Keir Starmer's leadership amidst mixed party reactions.
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Performative Toughness On Asylum
- Shabana Mahmood adopted a combative, performative style to signal toughness on asylum policy.
- Her approach mirrors Blairite fight-to-win tactics and aims to show voters Labour can act decisively.
Backbenchers Expect Concessions
- Many Labour backbenchers publicly criticised the plans but expect the package to be watered down.
- MPs are holding fire now, betting the government will make concessions to avoid rebellion.
Mahmood's Personal Anger About Racism
- Gaby Hinsliff described Shabana Mahmood's emotional retort about racism in public exchanges.
- Mahmood feels deeply that failing to neutralise resentment will leave people of colour exposed to harm.