Keir Starmer calls Reform migrant policy 'racist' and 'immoral'

Keir Starmer calls Reform migrant policy 'racist' and 'immoral'

Political reporters, including Jennifer McKiernan, have covered Sir Keir Starmer’s criticism of Reform UK’s policy of eliminating indefinite leave to remain. Starmer labeled this move as “racist” and “immoral”. The party, led by Nigel Farage, recently announced this policy, which could result in the deportation of hundreds of thousands of legal residents from the UK. Starmer clarified that he doesn’t believe Reform UK supporters are racist but rather “frustrated” after enduring 14 years of what he perceives as “Tory failure”. As the Labour conference kicks off, questions surrounding Starmer’s leadership and declining poll ratings have been at the forefront.

Presently, immigrants in the UK can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years, granting them the right to permanently reside, study, and work in the country. As part of Labour’s efforts to reduce immigration, they proposed doubling the timeframe to attain indefinite leave to remain from five years to ten. Reform UK, on the other hand, seeks to implement stricter visa rules that would require migrants to reapply and eliminate indefinite leave to remain, a status that offers additional benefits and rights. During an interview, Starmer firmly condemned the policy, deeming it racist and immoral for targeting legal residents.

In response to Starmer’s statements, Reform UK’s Zia Yusuf criticized Labour’s stance, accusing them of characterizing anyone against indefinite leave to remain as racist. According to a recent YouGov poll, abolishing indefinite leave to remain has divided public opinion, with 58% opposing its removal for existing holders. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also expressed interest in revising laws related to claiming indefinite leave to remain, emphasizing the importance of migrants contributing to their communities. Despite facing challenges within his party and ongoing struggles in the polls, Starmer urged for unity to combat the growing influence of Reform UK and protect the essence of the country.

As the Labour conference unfolds, the prime minister will have an opportunity to address his party and the public regarding his vision for the future. With recent setbacks such as the departure of key figures like Angela Rayner and Lord Mandelson and mounting pressure from leaders like Andy Burnham, the spotlight remains on his leadership. Despite voter frustration and the party trailing behind Reform in polls, Starmer acknowledged the time and effort required to reverse what he describes as years of failure, emphasizing the need for unity to tackle the challenges ahead

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