The Government has insisted its position on immigration reform remains unchanged, after Downing Street appeared to waver following criticism from Angela Rayner. A spokesperson confirmed that ministers will “double the route to settlement from five to 10 years”, reiterating the Home Secretary’s view that permanent residence is a “privilege” to be earned.
Ms Rayner, in a speech to campaign group Mainstream, argued that changing the rules for those already in the UK would be a “breach of trust”. She said: “We cannot talk about earning a settlement if we keep moving the goalposts, because moving the goalposts undermines our sense of fair play. It’s un-British.”
Earlier, No 10 had declined to commit to the proposals, saying it would respond to a consultation “in due course”. But a later Government statement clarified: “The Government’s position has not changed. We will always welcome those that come to this country and contribute to our national life. But the privilege of living here forever should be earned, not automatic.”
The statement noted that between 2021 and 2024, the UK experienced levels of migration historically seen over four decades, and that the Government is reviewing 200,000 consultation responses. Ms Rayner, who resigned as housing secretary last year, has been seen as a potential successor to Sir Keir Starmer amid Labour’s falling poll ratings.
