In a bold statement during his campaign for the Makerfield by-election, Andy Burnham has asserted that net migration to the UK must decrease even further. His remarks come on the heels of newly released figures that indicate a significant drop in migration numbers, reflecting growing public concern over immigration issues. The current mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham believes the government must strike a careful balance in its approach to immigration policy.
Recent Migration Statistics Reveal Decline
Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reveals that net migration added approximately 171,000 individuals to the UK’s population last year. This figure marks the lowest level since 2012, excluding the anomalies of the Covid pandemic, and has prompted various political reactions. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the need for ongoing adjustments in migration policy, indicating that “there is more to do” despite the downward trend.
Burnham, Labour’s candidate for the upcoming by-election, reported that constituents have voiced their worries about immigration during his campaign. He noted that the latest statistics demonstrate a “significantly down” trend in migration, reinforcing the idea that public sentiment is shifting.
Balancing Immigration Policy
In his statements, Burnham expressed support for the proposed changes from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, which aim to make it more difficult for migrants to settle permanently in the UK. Mahmood has framed these changes as “fair” and necessary to protect public finances. However, not all within the Labour Party share this view. Prominent figures, including former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have condemned the retrospective nature of the proposals, labelling them as “un-British” and a troubling case of “moving the goalposts.”
Burnham remarked on the importance of finding the right balance in immigration policy, stating, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right.” He underscored the consultation process that will be crucial in shaping these policies moving forward.
Changing Perspectives on Gender and Equality
In a related discussion, Burnham addressed his evolving views on single-sex spaces in light of new guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The guidance asserts that single-sex facilities, such as toilets and changing rooms, should be designated based on biological sex. Historically, Burnham had suggested that concerns about trans women in women’s spaces represented a “small minority” viewpoint. However, in a recent statement to the BBC, he acknowledged the Supreme Court ruling that established the definition of a woman under the Equality Act as being based on biological sex, noting that this ruling “has to be implemented.”
He emphasised the importance of ensuring that marginalised groups are not further alienated by this decision, stating, “This should not be a kind of victory over other people in society.” This nuanced stance reflects Burnham’s broader commitment to inclusivity while addressing the legitimate concerns of all community members.
A Strategic Challenge for Labour
As Burnham seeks to return to Westminster, his campaign in Makerfield is seen as a pivotal moment for the Labour Party. He has positioned himself as a candidate for change, asserting that a vote for him is a vote for restoring the party to its roots. The backdrop of Labour’s recent electoral setbacks has intensified speculation regarding Starmer’s leadership, yet the Prime Minister remains resolute in his position despite calls for his resignation.
In this competitive political landscape, Burnham faces not only the challenge of appealing to traditional Labour voters but also the looming threat from Reform UK’s candidate, Robert Kenyon. Kenyon has publicly asserted that Labour has taken local voters for granted, suggesting that “safe seats are massively under threat.” This sentiment has been echoed by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who expressed concern that the by-election was primarily a mechanism for resolving internal Labour disputes.
Why it Matters
The implications of Burnham’s statements and the ongoing by-election are profound, as they reflect not only the shifting landscape of UK immigration policy but also the internal dynamics of the Labour Party. As politicians grapple with public sentiment on migration, the decisions made in this context could shape the future of immigration policy and party cohesion for years to come. With rising concerns over previous electoral performances, the Makerfield by-election is shaping up to be a critical battleground that could redefine Labour’s strategy moving forward.