Unions urge ministers to soften planned changes to immigration rules
BBC News
Trade unions are calling on the government to modify proposed changes to immigration policies, which would make it more challenging for foreign workers to secure permanent residency in the UK. If implemented, these changes include extending the wait time for most migrants from five to ten years for permanent residence, and up to 15 years for those on health and social care visas.
Announced last year by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the proposals have sparked concern among trade unions, particularly regarding their impact on foreign workers already in the UK. Delegates at the Trades Union Congress (TUC) passed a motion demanding any changes affecting current residents be reversed.
A government spokesperson noted that over 200,000 responses were received during the consultation period, and they are currently reviewing them carefully.
Mahmood has defended the plans, attributing the need for change to the "unprecedented" number of new arrivals in the UK. However, critics argue these changes would make foreign workers second-class citizens.
Under the proposed rules, indefinite leave to remain, granting individuals the right to live and work in the UK indefinitely, would be extended to 10 years. Those on health and social care visas would face a 15-year wait, while those relying on benefits for over 12 months would have to wait up to 20 years.
Some Labour MPs, including Angela Rayner, have expressed their opposition to these changes, especially as they affect individuals already residing in the UK. Rayner, now housing secretary under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, previously labelled the proposals "un-British."
The UK’s largest union, Unison, echoed these concerns, stating that the plans would drive away essential international workers, particularly in critical sectors like social care, where the qualification period would triple.
