In a bold statement reflecting the shifting political landscape, Andy Burnham has asserted that net migration to the UK must decrease even further. His comments come in the wake of new figures indicating a significant drop in migration rates since 2024, a topic that has increasingly dominated conversations during his campaign for the Makerfield by-election. Burnham, who serves as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, highlighted the concerns voiced by constituents regarding immigration, emphasising that the latest statistics signal a downward trend.
Migration Rates on the Decline
The Office for National Statistics recently revealed that net migration added 171,000 individuals to the UK population last year, marking the lowest figure since 2012, excluding the pandemic period. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged the positive trajectory but insists there remains “more to do” in addressing immigration issues. Burnham’s assertion that net migration “needs to fall further” underscores a growing sentiment among Labour politicians regarding the need for a more balanced approach to immigration policy.
While Burnham supports the overarching aims of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s proposals to tighten immigration rules, he insists that the government must tread carefully to maintain fairness. Mahmood’s plans, which she describes as “fair” and necessary to prevent a burden on public finances, have drawn mixed reactions within the party. Some Labour MPs, notably former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have characterised the retrospective nature of these proposals as “un-British,” suggesting that it shifts the goalposts for current migrants.
Balancing Immigration and Public Sentiment
As the debate around immigration policy intensifies, Burnham emphasised the importance of getting the balance right. He stated, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right.” His comments reflect a nuanced position that seeks to acknowledge the diverse perspectives within the party while grappling with the complexities of public opinion on immigration.
The Home Office has projected that, without new interventions, approximately 1.6 million individuals could settle in the UK between 2026 and 2030. This statistic has raised alarms among some politicians who believe that unchecked migration could exacerbate existing social and economic pressures.
Shifting Perspectives on Gender and Identity
In addition to his immigration stance, Burnham has publicly revised his views regarding single-sex spaces following guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The guidance, which stipulates that access to these spaces should be determined by biological sex, has been contentious. Previously, Burnham expressed support for trans women’s rights in women’s facilities, but he has now accepted the Supreme Court’s ruling that the definition of a woman should be based on biological criteria. He stressed that this ruling must be implemented thoughtfully to avoid further marginalising vulnerable groups.
When pressed about his evolving stance, Burnham candidly admitted, “I’ll be honest, yes,” acknowledging that he has followed the debate closely and adapted his views in response to the ongoing discussions surrounding gender identity.
A Pivotal By-Election
As he campaigns for a return to Westminster through the Makerfield by-election, Burnham is positioning himself as a transformative figure within the Labour Party. He declared that a vote for him represents a desire to “change Labour” and restore it to its roots. With speculation swirling around Starmer’s leadership following disappointing election results, Burnham’s candidacy could signify a potential shift in the party’s direction.
Starmer has pledged to support Burnham in the by-election, framing it as a direct contest between Labour and Reform UK. Reform candidate Robert Kenyon has voiced his determination to challenge Labour’s dominance, claiming the party has taken local voters for granted. His remarks, alongside those of Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, suggest that the Makerfield constituency is a battleground that could reshape the political landscape.
The Liberal Democrats have selected councillor Jake Austin as their candidate, while the Green Party is poised to announce a replacement following the withdrawal of their initial choice. This competitive environment highlights the stakes involved in the upcoming by-election.
Why it Matters
Burnham’s call for further reductions in net migration and his evolving stance on gender identity reflect broader societal debates that resonate far beyond the confines of political rhetoric. As parties navigate these contentious issues, the Makerfield by-election serves as a litmus test for Labour’s future direction and its ability to address the concerns of its constituents. In a time of heightened political scrutiny, the outcomes of such contests could redefine party dynamics and influence immigration policy for years to come.
