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In a striking commentary on the current immigration landscape, Andy Burnham has asserted that net migration to the UK must be further reduced. His remarks come in the wake of new statistics from the Office for National Statistics, revealing that net migration has decreased significantly since 2024, with a net addition of 171,000 people to the UK population last year—the lowest figure observed since 2012, barring the pandemic years. As Labour’s candidate for the Makerfield by-election, Burnham’s stance reflects growing concerns among voters about immigration levels.
A Shifting Stance on Immigration
During a campaign event, Burnham, who currently serves as the Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed that discussions on immigration have become increasingly prevalent on the doorsteps of his constituency. He acknowledged that while recent figures indicate a downward trend in migration, there remains “more to do” in addressing the public’s apprehensions. This sentiment aligns with the broader narrative within Labour, where some MPs are advocating for a recalibration of the party’s approach to immigration policy.
The government’s proposal, spearheaded by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, seeks to tighten the criteria for migrants wishing to settle permanently in the UK. Burnham indicated his support for the overarching objectives of this initiative, asserting the need for a balanced approach that does not compromise the dignity of those seeking refuge or a new life in Britain. However, some within Labour, including former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have voiced concerns over the retrospective nature of these proposals, arguing that they unfairly alter the rules for migrants already in the country.
Balancing Act: Public Concerns and Policy
The issue of settlement rights—specifically, the indefinite leave to remain—has come to the fore as the Home Office anticipates that approximately 1.6 million individuals could seek to settle in the UK between 2026 and 2030 if the current policies remain unchanged. Burnham has emphasised the importance of achieving an equilibrium in policy-making that addresses both public concerns and the needs of migrants.
Furthermore, the recent guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission regarding single-sex spaces has prompted Burnham to reassess his previous views. He acknowledged a shift in his perspective, now recognising that the definition of a woman under the Equality Act should adhere to biological sex as determined by the Supreme Court. This evolution in stance illustrates the complex interplay of personal belief, political pressure, and societal expectations that Burnham navigates as he seeks to unify varying factions within the party.
Political Implications of the Makerfield By-election
As Burnham vies for a return to Westminster through the Makerfield by-election, the stakes are high not only for him but for the Labour Party at large. His campaign is framed as a bid for a transformative shift within Labour, promising constituents a return to its foundational principles. This comes against a backdrop of speculation surrounding Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, following disappointing electoral outcomes for the party earlier this month.
Starmer has publicly endorsed Burnham’s candidacy, asserting that the by-election represents a direct contest between Labour and Reform UK. Meanwhile, Reform candidate Robert Kenyon has made it clear that he perceives Labour’s hold on the constituency as tenuous, suggesting that the traditional safety of Labour seats is increasingly in jeopardy. The Conservative Party’s Kemi Badenoch has also weighed in, suggesting that the Makerfield by-election is more about resolving internal Labour disputes than addressing the needs of the electorate.
Why it Matters
The implications of Burnham’s statements and the upcoming by-election extend beyond the immediate political arena. They encapsulate a broader national discourse on immigration, identity, and the role of political parties in responding to public sentiment. As Labour grapples with its identity amidst calls for reform and clarity on pivotal issues, the responses from figures like Burnham will likely shape the party’s trajectory in the lead-up to the next general election. The outcome in Makerfield could serve as a bellwether for Labour’s resilience or vulnerability in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
