Coffee House Shots Mahmood's right turn, as migration figures revised – again
Nov 18, 2025
Michael Simmons, Economics editor at The Spectator, and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper, delve into the government’s asylum reform plans. They discuss Shabana Mahmood's controversial approach, which has received mixed reactions from conservatives and progressives alike. The duo explores the implications of revised migration statistics and their potential impact on the budget. Additionally, they examine the feasibility of Mahmood's ambitious measures, the internal dynamics within Labour, and the interplay between immigration policy and economic priorities.
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Bold Shift In Asylum Messaging
- Shabana Mahmood's asylum package is perceived as strongly right-leaning and tougher than previous Home Secretaries' approaches.
- The announcement drew predictable praise from the right and criticism from the left for adopting hardline language.
Mahmood's Communication Edge
- Danny Shaw praises Mahmood's direct style and links her background to communication advantages in this debate.
- He calls some measures radical and says some will likely be watered down over time.
Limited Immediate Impact On Crossings
- The evidence on 'pull factors' for small-boat crossings is inconclusive and many drivers (family, language) persist despite tougher rules.
- Policy effects may take years because legal changes require legislation and time to bed in.