UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stood for strict and stringent immigration norms. Preparing for tougher immigration measures across the English Channel, the decision comes in light of Farage led Reform UK party’s local win earlier this week. Party leaders from Reform UK have opined the condition that if UK government fails to stop asylum seekers, shows Starmer’s ardent desire to win voters.
Reportedly, the immigrants enter the country in small boats from France in hopes to avoid being deported. Deportations are legal under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) in asylum cases of illegal immigrants and foreign criminals. Sources close to Labour’s campaign reveal that Starmer’s team is drafting new immigration proposals focused on curbing low-skilled migration, tightening the rules for legal entry, and reinforcing the UK’s border infrastructure.
The shift is aimed at blunting the appeal of Farage’s hardline messaging, which has begun to resonate with disillusioned voters across traditional Labour strongholds, especially in pro-Brexit regions. Farage, whose political comeback threatens to peel support from both Labour and the Conservatives, has intensified his criticism of what he calls “mass uncontrolled immigration.” His return to frontline politics, coupled with growing public dissatisfaction over net migration figures, has heightened anxiety within Labour circles about their vulnerability on this front. Starmer’s evolving immigration policy is expected to focus on a points-based system that emphasises skilled workers and essential sectors, while also pledging stricter enforcement against illegal migration.
Additionally, Labour is said to be considering proposals that prioritise training domestic workers for roles often filled by migrants, aiming to strike a balance between protecting British jobs and addressing labour shortages. This marks a notable shift for Starmer, who previously faced criticism from both the left and the right for lacking clarity on immigration. While the Labour leader has consistently emphasised compassion and fairness in handling asylum cases, this tougher rhetoric signals an intent to project strength on national security and economic sovereignty.
