In a critical response to recent government statistics, Andy Burnham, the Labour candidate for the Makerfield by-election, has asserted that net migration to the UK must decrease further. This comes in the wake of figures from the Office for National Statistics revealing a significant drop in migration rates since 2024, suggesting a growing concern among constituents about the impact of immigration.
Migration Trends and Political Implications
The latest data indicates that net migration added 171,000 individuals to the UK population last year, reflecting the lowest levels since 2012—excluding the aberration caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking to local residents, Burnham noted that immigration has been a prevalent topic on the doorstep, prompting him to advocate for a continued decrease in net migration. He emphasized, “The trend is significantly down,” signalling his support for measures that could ensure this decline persists.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed Burnham’s sentiment, stressing that “there is more to do” regarding immigration policies. This alignment may signal a strategic shift within the Labour Party as they navigate public opinion on a contentious issue that has historically divided voters.
Balancing Immigration Policy
As Greater Manchester’s mayor, Burnham has a vested interest in the government’s approach to immigration. He underscored the necessity for the administration to “get the balance right” in its proposals aimed at making it more challenging for migrants to gain permanent residency in the UK. His endorsement of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s proposed reforms reflects a broader consensus within Labour, despite some internal dissent.
Mahmood has defended her position, arguing that the changes are crucial to prevent a strain on public finances. Critics, including former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have labelled these retrospective measures as “un-British,” contending that they unfairly alter the rules for those who have already settled in the country. Burnham acknowledged the need for careful consideration of these reforms, stating, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right.”
Shift in Stance on Gender and Equality Issues
In a related development, Burnham has also publicly revised his stance regarding the guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) on single-sex spaces. Following a Supreme Court ruling that defines a woman based on biological sex, Burnham expressed his acceptance of the decision, asserting that it should be implemented. He stated, “I’ll be honest, yes” when asked if his views had changed, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of the ongoing debate surrounding gender identity.
He reiterated his commitment to finding common ground, stating he seeks a “fair” approach that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. This evolution in Burnham’s position may resonate with certain voter demographics, particularly in the wake of heightened scrutiny on gender-related issues within political discourse.
The Road Ahead for Labour
With Burnham vying for a return to Westminster, his campaign in Makerfield is seen as a critical test for both his political future and that of the Labour Party. He has positioned himself as a candidate promising to “change Labour,” appealing to those who long for a reinvigoration of the party’s core values.
The backdrop of Labour’s recent electoral setbacks has intensified speculation about Starmer’s leadership, with many MPs urging a reevaluation of their strategy. However, Starmer remains resolute, planning to campaign actively for Burnham in what he describes as a “straight fight between Labour and Reform.”
The Reform UK candidate, Robert Kenyon, is also making waves, suggesting that Labour has taken the constituency for granted. His comments underscore a broader narrative of disillusionment among traditional Labour voters, with Kenyon warning that “safe seats are massively under threat.”
Why it Matters
As the political landscape shifts, Burnham’s call for reduced net migration and his evolving stance on contentious social issues reflect a broader recalibration within Labour. The outcome of the Makerfield by-election could serve as a bellwether for the party’s direction and its ability to reconnect with voters. With immigration remaining a hot-button issue, how Labour navigates this terrain will likely influence its electoral fortunes in the years to come.
