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In a bold assertion during his campaign for the Makerfield by-election, Andy Burnham has declared that net migration to the UK must decrease even further, following the release of government statistics indicating a significant drop in immigration levels. The Labour candidate and current Mayor of Greater Manchester expressed that concerns about immigration have been a recurring theme among constituents, highlighting the need for a balanced approach in government policies.
Declining Migration Figures
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics revealed that net migration added 171,000 individuals to the UK population last year, marking the lowest levels since 2012, excluding the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Burnham noted that, while the trend indicates a significant downward shift, it is essential for the government to continue striving for lower migration numbers. He remarked, “The trend is significantly down,” reinforcing his stance that the current levels are not acceptable to many voters.
Government Proposals Under Scrutiny
Burnham’s remarks come as the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, pushes for new measures aimed at tightening the rules around permanent residency for migrants. He acknowledged the necessity of these proposals, stating, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right.” However, the proposals have faced criticism from within the Labour Party, notably from former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who has characterised the retrospective nature of these changes as “un-British” and an instance of “moving the goalposts.”
The Home Office has projected that without any changes, approximately 1.6 million people could settle in the UK between 2026 and 2030. This forecast underscores the urgency of the current debate surrounding immigration policy and its implications for public services and finances.
Shifts in Stance on Gender Issues
In addition to immigration, Burnham addressed his evolving views on single-sex spaces, following the recent guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). Previously, he had expressed concern about the inclusion of transgender women in women’s facilities. However, he now accepts the Supreme Court’s ruling that defines a woman based on biological sex, stating, “This has to be implemented.” He emphasised the importance of not further marginalising any group within society, calling for a balanced approach that respects the rights and concerns of all individuals.
Political Landscape in Makerfield
As Burnham seeks a return to Westminster, he is positioning himself as a candidate for change within the Labour Party. He has proclaimed that a vote for him signifies a desire to reclaim the party’s identity that many voters feel has been lost. His campaign comes amid rising tensions within Labour, as Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure following disappointing election results. Despite calls for his resignation, Starmer has remained steadfast, pledging to support Burnham in the by-election.
Meanwhile, Reform UK’s candidate, Robert Kenyon, has voiced his belief that Labour has taken local voters for granted, warning that “safe seats are massively under threat.” Kenyon’s remarks echo a growing sentiment among opposition parties that Labour is vulnerable in areas it once considered secure.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s calls for reduced migration and his candidacy in the Makerfield by-election represent a significant pivot in Labour’s approach to immigration and social issues. As public sentiment shifts and scrutiny of government policies intensifies, the outcomes of this election could herald broader implications for Labour’s future direction and its ability to connect with voters on pressing concerns. The dynamics at play in Makerfield not only reflect local issues but also signal potential shifts in the national political landscape as parties grapple with the complexities of immigration, identity, and representation.
