Political Fix Labour's immigration crackdown
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May 16, 2025 Robert Shrimsley and Jim Pickard, both FT correspondents, dive into Labour's recent immigration crackdown led by Keir Starmer. They dissect Starmer's controversial speech about the UK becoming an 'island of strangers' and the end of social care visas. The guests explore the party's internal divisions over immigration policy and the potential impact on their voter base. Additionally, they touch on the urgent reforms needed in the male prison system and the complex political landscape facing Labour amidst economic challenges.
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Labour's Immigration Reduction Plan
- Labour plans to reduce net immigration by about 100,000 from current levels near 725,000.
- Policies include ending social care visas, tightening skilled work visas, and extending settlement wait to 10 years.
Balancing Immigration Views
- Starmer's immigration policy might be "too little, too late, and too much" for different voter groups.
- Public is not anti-immigration but pro controls, and Labour must balance these views.
Labour Shortages Despite Visa Cuts
- Social care visa abuse has been significant with workers not staying in sector.
- But many professions in the UK still face labor shortages that immigration helps fill.