In a bold statement, Andy Burnham has urged for a continued decrease in net migration to the UK, following the release of new government statistics revealing a significant drop. The Labour candidate for Makerfield expressed that concerns over immigration have resonated strongly with constituents, indicating a growing sentiment that the issue needs addressing as the country gears up for an important by-election.
Migration Figures Reveal Dramatic Shift
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics has shown that net migration to the UK has nearly halved since 2024, with an addition of 171,000 people to the population in the past year—the lowest figure recorded since 2012, excluding the pandemic period. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged that while progress has been made, “there is more to do” to tackle the complexities surrounding immigration.
Burnham, who currently serves as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, noted that “the trend is significantly down” and emphasised the need for the government to “get the balance right” in its strategy to make permanent settlement more difficult for migrants. His comments come amid a broader discussion on how to manage immigration effectively while considering public sentiment.
Government Plans Under Fire
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has put forward proposals aimed at tightening immigration rules, which she argues are essential to prevent a “drain on our public finances.” While Burnham has shown support for the general direction of Mahmood’s plans, dissenting voices within Labour are raising alarms. Notably, former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has labelled the retrospective nature of these proposals as “un-British,” accusing the government of “moving the goalposts.”
In light of these developments, Burnham acknowledged the importance of the ongoing consultation process regarding the proposed changes, stating, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right.” The Home Office has projected that without intervention, up to 1.6 million individuals could be granted settlement status between 2026 and 2030.
Shifting Views on Gender and Equality
In a related discussion, Burnham’s stance on single-sex spaces has evolved, particularly in light of new guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). This guidance, which dictates that such spaces be determined based on biological sex, has sparked considerable debate. Previously, Burnham described the opposition to trans women in women’s facilities as stemming from a “small minority.”
However, he has recently accepted the Supreme Court ruling affirming that the definition of a woman under the Equality Act should be based on biological sex. He stated, “It has to be implemented,” while also emphasising the need for this issue not to further marginalise vulnerable communities. Burnham explained, “I want a situation that is fair but that recognises the concerns of all people and finds the point of balance.”
Election Dynamics Intensify
As Burnham seeks to reclaim a seat in Westminster through the Makerfield by-election, he is positioning himself as a transformative figure for Labour. He declared that a vote for him represents a desire to restore the party to its former identity, echoing sentiments among grassroots supporters. Starmer has pledged to campaign actively for Burnham, framing the election as a critical contest between Labour and Reform UK.
Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon has also entered the fray, asserting that Labour has taken voters in Makerfield for granted and warning that “safe seats are massively under threat.” Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch voiced her concerns that the by-election is merely a distraction from internal Labour conflicts.
The Liberal Democrats have selected Jake Austin as their candidate, while the Green Party is expected to announce a replacement shortly after their initial nominee withdrew.
Why it Matters
The ongoing debates surrounding immigration and gender equality highlight the shifting landscape of British politics as parties prepare for a turbulent electoral season. With public sentiment increasingly focusing on these issues, the outcome of the Makerfield by-election could have significant ramifications for Labour’s leadership and its future direction. As Burnham seeks to re-establish trust with voters, the implications of his stances on migration and equality will undoubtedly shape the discourse within not only his constituency but across the nation.
