'Island of strangers': Starmer unveils crackdown plan on immigration
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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces immigration reforms to curb net migration, tighten visa rules, and reduce foreign recruitment of care workers.
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Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks during a press conference, ahead of the publication of the government's Immigration White Paper, in London, May 12, 2025 (AP)
The Labour Government’s new white paper outlines tighter visa rules, language requirements, and restrictions on care worker recruitment.
A white paper is an official government policy document that outlines proposed legislation or reforms in detail before they are introduced in Parliament. It serves to explain the rationale behind the changes, invite public or political feedback, and signal the government’s legislative direction, in this case, on immigration policy.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced sweeping immigration reforms aimed at reducing net migration and “taking back control of our borders.” In a speech at Downing Street, Starmer warned that the UK risked becoming an “island of strangers” without firm rules and a rebalanced migration system.
The reforms come as net migration reached 728,000 in the year to mid-2024, sparking public backlash and fueling political gains for right-wing parties. Starmer said he expected net migration to fall “significantly” by the end of Parliament, though he declined to set a specific target.
“In a diverse nation like ours, and I celebrate that, these rules become even more important,” the prime minister said. “Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a nation that walks forward together.”
New citizenship rules, English language standards introduced
The Labour Government’s white paper proposes that most migrants must now live in the UK for ten years before becoming eligible for citizenship. However, fast-track pathways will be made available for “high-contributing” individuals such as doctors and nurses.
English language requirements will be increased across all immigration routes. Migrants, including adult dependents, will have to demonstrate higher proficiency in English as part of their visa applications.
If you want to live in the UK, you should speak English. That’s common sense.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) May 12, 2025
So we’re raising English language requirements across every main immigration route.
In addition, skilled worker visas will now require a university degree, and employers will face tighter restrictions when recruiting for positions on the shortage occupation list.
Care sector reacts sharply to visa restrictions
One of the most controversial elements of the reform package is a proposed curb on foreign recruitment of care workers. Starmer said the UK government intends to limit reliance on overseas labour in the care sector to encourage more domestic employment.
However, care sector leaders have strongly criticised the move. Martin Green, CEO of Care England, called the proposals “cruel” and warned they would exacerbate the staffing crisis across the social care system.
Labour seeks to respond to pressure from Reform UK gains
The announcement follows a surge in support for Reform UK, which made significant gains in recent local council elections. The party has capitalized on growing voter frustration with immigration, particularly among traditional Conservative and working-class Labour constituencies.
Labour don’t care about our borders, small boat crossings have surged under their watch.
— Reform UK (@reformparty_uk) May 12, 2025
Our borders need Reform. pic.twitter.com/7EHbICajZd
Starmer’s message echoed Brexit-era rhetoric as he promised to “deliver what you’ve asked for time and again” and reiterated, “We will take back control of our borders.”
Conservatives accuse Starmer of credit-stealing over migration drop
The Conservative Party has pushed back on the Labour plan, accusing Starmer of taking credit for the decline in visa numbers triggered by Tory reforms implemented in April 2024.
A Conservative spokesperson said, “The Prime Minister is trying to claim progress based on results driven by Conservative changes. Voters won’t be fooled.”
As immigration remains one of the most contentious issues in British politics, Starmer’s strategy reflects Labour’s attempt to project firmness on border control, while avoiding alienating key sectors dependent on migrant workers.
