Overview
- Angela Rayner told a Mainstream event that Labour is running out of time and warned the party’s survival is at stake, attacking retrospective changes to indefinite leave to remain as a breach of trust and un-British.
- Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has proposed doubling the qualifying period for permanent residence from five to ten years and tightening language and other requirements, with reports saying the changes would apply to people who arrived since 2021.
- No 10 declined to commit to implementing the tougher settlement measures, saying ministers are considering responses to the Home Office consultation and will respond in line with stated principles and values.
- Cabinet Office minister Nick Thomas-Symonds said the government shares impatience with the pace of change, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting defended a firm but fair approach to managing immigration.
- Backbench resistance has grown, with a letter coordinated by Tony Vaughan reportedly signed by more than 100 Labour MPs urging a rethink, as Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said he understands the frustration Rayner voiced.