Energy Secretary Reverses Stance, Backs Government's Immigration Reforms

Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh has publicly backed the government's immigration reforms, a reversal from her stance earlier in the week. Fahnbulleh apologized for remarks made in an interview where she repeatedly declined to support Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's proposals.

Mahmood's plan aims to extend the waiting period for foreign nationals seeking Indefinite Leave to Remain, a policy that has faced internal dissent from some Labour MPs. Fahnbulleh had previously criticized the policy on her constituency website, stating it could impede the "process of building cohesion."

In a statement on Thursday, Fahnbulleh expressed her full support for the Home Secretary and the government's migration agenda. "As I said earlier this week, it's absolutely right that people should have to make a contribution to this country in order to earn citizenship," she tweeted.

Earlier this week, Fahnbulleh notably evaded questions on Sky News about whether she supported the specific policy of extending the waiting period for permanent residency. When pressed by presenter Sophy Ridge, Fahnbulleh stated, "We have got to reform our immigration system. My view is that we need a system that is based on the principle of compassion [and] contribution."

She elaborated that the government is undertaking a package of reforms, with the Home Secretary consulting on various responses before finalizing measures. Fahnbulleh, who immigrated to the UK as a refugee, emphasized that the current immigration system is "broken" and requires fundamental reform. She reiterated her support for reforms requiring a contribution to the country for citizenship and affirmed her backing for Shabana Mahmood's efforts.

Reports suggest that Mahmood's proposal to potentially extend the five-year wait by up to 10 years for foreign care workers might be modified to mitigate a potential Labour rebellion. Fahnbulleh and Deputy Leader Angela Rayner had both voiced criticism of the plan before entering their current roles, with Fahnbulleh previously posting online against attempts to "prolong the time people have to wait for settlement."

Downing Street has not ruled out changes to the proposal, emphasizing that Mahmood is thoroughly reviewing over 200,000 responses to the consultation. The Prime Minister's spokesperson stated that the Home Secretary is leading a comprehensive review to ensure the correct arrangements are implemented. Regarding potential adjustments, including retrospective application, the spokesperson noted that proposals were put forward for consultation and that ministers would not comment on elements subject to the consultation's outcomes.