Reform UK would allow immigrants to enter the United Kingdom if they go on to work in the National Health Service (NHS), while simultaneously pushing for an overall reduction in migrant numbers, the party's Makerfield by-election candidate has confirmed.
Policy Clarified at Hustings
Robert Kenyon, the 41-year-old plumber standing for Reform UK in the Makerfield by-election, outlined the policy during a hustings event hosted by the Manchester Evening News. He was responding to a question about how the party would ensure the smooth running of public services while controlling immigration levels.
"People coming here who want to work, like for the NHS... you're welcome to come," Kenyon said.
Party's Stance on Immigration
Kenyon reiterated the party's backing for net negative immigration, a system where the overall number of migrants living in the country declines. He also stated the party would "stop the boats" and deport anyone living in the UK illegally.
"If we have got a demand, a need, then by all means come here," he told attendees, adding that "the floodgates have opened" in recent years, placing "a massive strain" on public services such as hospitals and schools.
Electoral Pressure on Nigel Farage
Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, is facing mounting electoral pressure from the right of his movement, particularly from the splinter party Restore Britain, which is pushing for a tougher stance on immigration. Restore, led by Rupert Lowe MP, pledges a policy of mass deportations, with Lowe stating that millions of migrants would be removed under his plans.
Labour's Response
At the same event, Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham took aim at Kenyon, who is polling in a close second place to Labour. Burnham said he would deal with high levels of migration "with care, and control, rather than rhetoric and division."
Blasting Reform UK, Burnham added: "Who was in charge of the immigration system when we saw net migration at the highest levels we have seen in recent times? Two prominent members of Reform, Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman." Both Jenrick and Braverman recently defected from the Conservative Party to Reform UK and had served in the Home Office during previous governments. They have been vocal critics of Conservative immigration policies.
Burnham concluded: "But let's remember there are people here, working here, who contribute to our society, contribute to our NHS."
