The UK’s Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, is set to launch a fresh crackdown on immigration while sharply criticising Green Party leader Zack Polanski, accusing him of promoting what she calls a “fairytale of open borders”.
In a major speech, Mahmood will argue that the Greens are pushing policies that would dramatically expand migration if Polanski were to become prime minister. Her comments also come as pressure grows within the Labour Party following last week’s unexpected by-election upset in Gorton and Denton.
Labour, which previously held the seat with a majority of nearly 13,500 votes, finished third in the contest as the Green Party’s Hannah Spencer secured a historic victory.
Tougher Immigration Measures And Asylum Policy Changes
Mahmood will outline a new set of immigration reforms aimed at tightening the UK’s asylum system and discouraging illegal entry into the country. Under the proposals, asylum seekers who commit crimes or work illegally will be removed from taxpayer-funded accommodation and stripped of benefits.
The plans also include a review of refugee status every 30 months, part of a broader strategy designed to make the UK a less attractive destination for illegal migration. The Home Secretary will argue that these measures represent a balanced approach to migration policy.
“Restoring order and control at our border is not a betrayal of Labour values, it is an embodiment of them,” Mahmood will say.
Shabana Mahmood Targets Green Party Migration Policies
In her speech, Mahmood will directly challenge the migration policies advocated by the Greens and their leader.
“Some say that we should turn to the path proposed by the Greens. That we should create a world without borders, that nation states are social constructs and patriotism is a dirty word,” she will say.
“To some, this might seem like harmless student politics. But the danger and the possible damage is real. A party leader who seeks the highest office in the land should not be on the beaches of France helping migrants onto small boats encouraging them to make a perilous crossing.
“Creating further incentives to come to this country illegally, increasing the already vast burden placed on taxpayers in this country. Polanski calls for the most expensive and expansive migration policies anywhere in the world.”
Labour’s Strategy To Counter Rising Far-Right Support
Mahmood will also argue that stronger border control policies are necessary to address public concerns and prevent political gains by far-right groups.
Cracking down on small boat crossings, she will say, places Labour alongside the concerns of ordinary voters. “When people see small boat arrivals, at their current scale or they feel the pace and scale of migration today, they feel like we have lost control,” Mahmood will say.
“A loss of control breeds fear and when fearful, people turn inwards. Their vision of this country narrows. Their patriotism turns into something smaller, something darker, an ethno-nationalism emerges.
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“The idea of a greater Britain gives way to the lure of a littler England. And other voices – voices to the far right – take hold.”
Responding to criticism that the government’s approach may be too tough, Mahmood will defend the proposals as a balanced reform of the asylum system. “Providing sanctuary to those genuinely fleeing persecution while striking at the vile smuggling gangs and restoring order at the border,” she will say.
“Ensuring the right to live in this country forever is there, for those who seek a better life which comes with responsibilities to contribute to our national life.”
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