The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Starmer moves right on immigration
11 snips
May 15, 2025 Keir Starmer's leadership takes a bold turn with a major immigration policy overhaul. The controversial phrase 'island of strangers' sparks comparisons to a notorious speech from history. The internal tension within the Labour Party over immigration policies is palpable, as they navigate the political landscape influenced by the Conservatives. Additionally, the assisted dying bill stirs debate with mixed reactions from MPs, while devolution creates distinct immigration laws across Scotland, England, and Wales. The complications surrounding these topics reflect the dynamic nature of UK politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Starmer's Phrase Echoes Powell Cautiously
- The phrase "island of strangers" used by Keir Starmer was unfortunate and evoked negative comparisons to Enoch Powell's rhetoric.
- However, the intent was to highlight risks to social cohesion if communities don't understand each other, not ethnic replacement or hostility.
Labour's Shift on Immigration Numbers
- Labour government appears to have shifted fundamentally on mass immigration policy under Keir Starmer.
- High net immigration persists despite flat growth, challenging assumptions about immigration's economic benefits.
Balancing Immigration and Economic Needs
- Some immigration policies seek to balance economic needs with immigration control, such as modifying student visa durations.
- The government aims to reduce immigration while recognizing dependencies on overseas students and skilled workers.