Starmer plans to ease impact of immigration policy changes after backlash from Labour MPs

Keir Starmer is considering softening proposed changes to the UK immigration system following internal opposition from Labour MPs, including Angela Rayner. The proposed changes, announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, would extend the qualification period for settled status from five to ten years for most immigrants. The government is debating exemptions for public sector workers and those nearing settlement. Mahmood argues the changes, including making refugee status temporary and offering payments for failed asylum seekers to leave, are needed to address high net migration levels under the previous government. She aims for the changes to apply retrospectively, affecting those already in the country. Downing Street confirmed that exemptions would not apply to everyone already in the country.

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