Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has indicated that the government may reconsider proposals aimed at tightening the rules for foreign workers seeking permanent residency in the UK.
Mahmood has faced mounting pressure from several Labour MPs, including Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, alongside trade unions, urging a reassessment of the planned changes.
Speaking at Labour’s annual party conference, Mahmood acknowledged concerns raised by critics, stating that “some have said elements of these reforms are not fair.”
She emphasized that the government is committed to finding a balance, saying it will “come to a position that reflects fairness for those who came here legally and fairness to British citizens across this country.”
Indefinite leave to remain allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely, as well as access public benefits if eligible.
Mahmood had previously suggested extending the qualifying period for most migrants from five years to ten, with even longer waits proposed for certain groups.
Under earlier suggestions, those arriving on health and social care visas would have faced a 15-year wait, while individuals claiming benefits for over 12 months would have had to wait up to 20 years.
Rajner, formerly a backbencher, criticized the proposals as “un-British,” accusing the government of shifting the goalposts—an stance she maintained after returning to the Cabinet.
Andrea Egan, General Secretary of Unison, argued that the draft policies would disproportionately affect overseas care workers who play a vital role in the sector.
Home Office sources maintain that no final decisions have been made, stressing that Mahmood was outlining guiding principles rather than announcing concrete policy during her speech.
In her address to delegates, Mahmood stated, “As we restore control and fairness to our asylum system, we must do the same for legal migration.”
She added, “Fair to those who seek a new and better life here—like my parents did—and fair to those already here, including British workers, and especially the young.”
“That same principle underpins my reforms to the right to live here indefinitely, ensuring settled status is earned by those who have shown consistent commitment to this country.”
Mahmood reaffirmed her commitment to developing a policy that is equitable for both legal migrants and UK citizens.
A Conservative spokesperson commented, saying Mahmood appeared to yield to pressure from Rayner and so-called “open borders” MPs, potentially abandoning her own reform agenda.
“This amounts to a betrayal of British taxpayers, who should not bear the burden of supporting low-skilled, low-wage migration,” the spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Andy Burnham sought to downplay signs of internal discord, telling LBC: “I’m both Team Angela and Team Shabana.”
He continued: “What we’re seeing is part of an ongoing consultation process, reflecting a wide range of perspectives from politicians and stakeholders alike.”