In a striking move, Andy Burnham, the Labour candidate for the Makerfield by-election and current Mayor of Greater Manchester, has urged the UK government to further decrease net migration levels. His comments follow the recent release of Office for National Statistics data, revealing a significant decline in migration, which is now at its lowest since 2012, excluding pandemic years. Burnham’s engagement with constituents indicates a palpable unease about immigration, prompting him to advocate for a recalibration of the government’s approach.
Declining Migration Figures
According to the latest statistics, net migration to the UK added 171,000 individuals to the population last year. This figure represents nearly a halving of migration levels compared to previous years, a trend that Burnham believes must continue. He asserts that the public’s wariness about immigration issues is a recurring theme during his campaign interactions, suggesting a need for political responsiveness to these concerns.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also acknowledged the new figures, stating that “there is more to do” in addressing migration challenges. The latest data indicates a substantial shift in the immigration landscape, one that both Burnham and Starmer seem keen to navigate carefully.
Balancing Immigration Policy
Burnham has expressed general support for Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s proposed measures aimed at tightening immigration rules, emphasising the necessity of achieving the right balance. He argues that while immigration controls are essential, they must not unfairly penalise those seeking to settle in the UK. Mahmood has justified her proposals as a response to concerns over public finances, asserting that these changes are both “fair” and necessary.
However, dissent within the Labour Party is palpable. Prominent figures, including former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have labelled the retrospective nature of the proposals as “un-British”, accusing the government of “moving the goalposts” on immigration policy. Burnham acknowledges this internal debate, stating, “We’ll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she’s doing is right.”
The Home Office’s projections indicate that, without intervention, approximately 1.6 million people could secure indefinite leave to remain in the UK between 2026 and 2030. This forecast raises questions about the sustainability of current immigration policies and the practical implications for public services.
Shifting Stances on Equality
In a related development, Burnham has also revisited his stance on the use of single-sex spaces following the endorsement of new guidance by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission. This guidance mandates that such facilities should be allocated based on biological sex. Previously, Burnham had downplayed the concerns surrounding trans women in women’s spaces, but he now accepts the Supreme Court’s ruling that outlines this definition under the Equality Act.
“I’ll be honest, yes,” he stated when asked if his views had evolved. “I’ve followed the debate as it’s gone along over the years.” He insists on a fair approach that takes into account the rights of all individuals while adhering to the law. Burnham’s readiness to adapt his views reflects the evolving discourse around gender and equality in the UK, highlighting the complexities that politicians must navigate.
Aiming for Leadership
Burnham’s campaign for the Makerfield by-election is not merely about securing a seat; it is a strategic move towards potentially challenging Starmer for party leadership should he succeed. At his campaign launch, he framed his candidacy as a “vote to change Labour”, promising to restore the party to its roots and resonate with long-standing voters.
With Labour facing scrutiny over recent electoral results, including a lacklustre performance in local elections, Burnham’s bid represents a critical juncture for the party. Starmer has pledged to support Burnham in the by-election, framing it as a direct contest between Labour and Reform UK.
The Competition Heats Up
Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon, who previously finished second in Makerfield, has voiced his commitment to the constituency, asserting that Labour has taken voters for granted. He warns that “safe seats are massively under threat”, a sentiment echoed by Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, who expressed concerns that the by-election is more about Labour’s internal dynamics than genuine representation.
As the political landscape continues to shift, the Liberal Democrats have announced their candidate, while the Green Party is in the process of selecting a replacement for their initial choice, who withdrew shortly after being named.
Why It Matters
The discussions surrounding net migration and equality issues highlight the intricate balance politicians must strike between addressing public concerns and promoting inclusivity. Burnham’s call for tighter immigration controls reflects broader societal anxieties, and his evolving stance on gender rights underscores the challenges of leading in a rapidly changing environment. As the Makerfield by-election approaches, the implications of these debates extend beyond party politics, shaping the very fabric of British society and its values.
