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In the wake of new statistics indicating a significant decline in net migration to the UK, Labour’s candidate for the Makerfield by-election, Andy Burnham, has voiced the need for further reductions. The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal that net migration fell to its lowest level since 2012, excluding the pandemic years, prompting Burnham to highlight growing concerns among constituents regarding immigration.
Declining Migration Figures
Recent data shows that net migration added 171,000 individuals to the UK population in the past year, a noteworthy decrease from previous years. Burnham, currently serving as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, affirmed that this downward trend is a positive development but insists that more action is required. “People on the doorstep have raised their concerns about immigration,” he stated, underscoring the importance of addressing public sentiment on this contentious issue.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed Burnham’s sentiments, acknowledging that while the situation is improving, “there’s more to do.” The Home Office has projected that without any changes to current policies, approximately 1.6 million individuals could settle in the UK between 2026 and 2030, a statistic that has alarmed many within the political sphere.
Government’s Proposed Changes
Burnham has expressed support for the government’s proposed measures aimed at tightening immigration policies, stating that the government must “get the balance right” in its approach. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has advocated for these changes, arguing that they are “fair” and necessary to prevent a strain on public finances. However, the proposed retrospective nature of these changes has drawn criticism from some Labour MPs, including former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who labelled them as “un-British” and a case of “moving the goalposts.”
“While we need to work hard to find the right balance, the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right,” Burnham commented, signalling his alignment with the government’s direction while also acknowledging the need for careful consideration.
Shift on Gender and Equality Issues
In a separate yet equally significant development, Burnham has revisited his stance on the use of single-sex spaces following the recent guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The guidance, which stipulates that single-sex facilities should be designated based on biological sex, has sparked significant debate. Previously, Burnham expressed support for trans women accessing women’s spaces, describing opposition to this as a concern held by a “small minority.”
However, he has since accepted the Supreme Court’s ruling that defines a woman under the Equality Act as based on biological sex. “I’ll be honest, yes,” he admitted when asked if his views had changed. “I’ve followed the debate as it’s gone along over the years.” Burnham reiterated his commitment to a fair approach that respects the rights of all individuals while acknowledging the complexities of the situation.
Political Landscape in Makerfield
As Burnham campaigns to reclaim a seat in Westminster, he positions himself as a transformative force within the Labour Party. “A vote for me is a vote to change Labour,” he declared at his campaign launch, seeking to restore the party to its former identity. His candidacy comes amid increasing speculation about Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, particularly following disappointing results in recent elections.
Burnham’s campaign is not without competition. Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate and a local councillor, has made waves by asserting that Labour has taken voters for granted in Makerfield and that “safe seats are massively under threat.” Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has also expressed concerns that the by-election is merely a reflection of internal Labour Party issues rather than a genuine contest for the constituency’s future.
The Liberal Democrats have selected Jake Austin as their candidate, while the Green Party is expected to announce a replacement candidate after their initial choice withdrew unexpectedly.
Why it Matters
The discussions surrounding net migration and the evolving narrative around gender equality in public spaces reflect deep-seated societal divisions in the UK. Burnham’s advocacy for reduced migration and his shifting views on sex-based rights underscore the complexities political leaders face as they navigate public sentiment and party dynamics. As the Makerfield by-election approaches, the outcomes will not only influence local governance but may also signal broader trends that could reshape the political landscape in the UK for years to come.
