Angela Rayner Suggests Sexism Fuels Claims of Cabinet Rift Over Immigration Policy

Housing Secretary Angela Rayner has suggested that sexism is the driving force behind claims of a rift within the Cabinet concerning immigration plans. Rayner dismissed reports of tensions, stating that there is a tendency for people to "love saying us girls are all falling out."

These comments emerged following criticism of the Home Office's proposals to extend the waiting period for immigrants seeking 'settled' status. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh had previously written an article on her constituency website, which has since been removed, arguing that prolonging settlement times hinders community cohesion. Fahnbulleh advocated for a more compassionate and controlled approach to discussing immigration.

Last autumn, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood proposed extending the settlement period for foreign nationals, particularly those arriving during the post-COVID immigration surge. Mahmood warned that maintaining current rules would lead to a "£10 billion drain on our public finances" as migrants would gain quicker access to benefits and social housing upon achieving permanent status.

Rayner defended Mahmood's actions, highlighting an increase in deportations and the prevention of approximately 48,000 small boat crossings in the Channel since 2024. "She's delivering, and she's had a consultation on it," Rayner said. "She said she wants a fair process, and we're all up for that."

When questioned about her own past criticism of the proposals, Rayner stated she had shared her views during the consultation period and affirmed her support for Mahmood's efforts. "Absolutely. I'm absolutely in support that Shabana needs to tackle this issue," Rayner asserted. "Every single doorstep you go on, people say we want to secure our borders. We don't mind immigration that comes to this country. We celebrate immigration that comes to this country."

Under the proposed reforms, the minimum qualification period for settled status would increase to ten years. This duration would be extended further for low-skilled foreign workers or those who have claimed benefits during that time. Reports indicate that over 200,000 migrants have already been granted settled status while the plans have been under consideration since November.

Home Office estimates suggest that between 1.6 and 2.2 million migrants are expected to qualify for settlement between the current year and 2030. This figure includes over 450,000 individuals who arrived on 'health and care worker' visas, some of which have reportedly been subject to abuse.

Fahnbulleh's deleted article also characterized the political discourse around immigration as "depressing and toxic" and called for a system prioritizing "control and compassion, with a much stronger focus on integration."

Rayner's previous criticisms of Mahmood's proposals included describing them as "un-British" and a "breach of trust" in March, while on the back benches. Andrea Egan, general secretary of the Unison trade union, has also voiced opposition to the plans.

Conservative Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the situation, stating that Labour Cabinet members were publicly disagreeing with their own government's policies. He argued that Mahmood had delayed implementing her policy, allowing a significant number of immigrants to gain permanent status and access benefits, and suggested she was yielding to pressure from Rayner and the Labour Left.

A Home Office spokesperson confirmed that reforms have been announced to ensure settlement is earned rather than automatic and that responses to the consultation are being considered.