Angela Rayner has warned that the Government is running out of time to deliver immigration reform, as she criticised plans to double the waiting period for indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years. In a speech widely interpreted as a leadership bid, the former deputy prime minister described the proposal as 'un-British' and accused ministers of 'moving the goalposts'.
The plans, championed by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, would apply retrospectively to 2.2 million migrants who have arrived since 2021. Downing Street has hinted at a possible climbdown, with a spokesman saying the Government is considering 'transitional arrangements' for migrants who have contributed to the economy and society.
Allies of Ms Mahmood defended the policy, citing a More in Common poll showing 59 per cent of Labour voters support the crackdown. However, Ms Rayner's intervention has exposed a deep split within the party, with some MPs warning that watering down the plans could cost the taxpayer billions in higher welfare payments.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said the Conservatives would back the Government if it faced down its rebels, while Reform's Robert Jenrick accused the Prime Minister of weakness. 'Starmer's weakness will cost the taxpayer tens of billions of pounds,' he said.
