UK Home Secretary to Soften Migrant Rules for Social Care Workers
Shabana Mahmood reportedly plans to exempt around half a million migrants in the social care sector from stricter right-to-remain regulations, facing internal and external criticism.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to announce revisions to her proposed immigration rules next week, which could exempt approximately half a million migrants working in the social care sector from tougher new residency requirements. The move comes amid significant criticism from within her own party, trade unions, and the public regarding the initial proposals.
Under the original plans, the wait for permanent settlement in the UK could have been extended to 15 years for some low-paid legal migrants. However, reports suggest that Mahmood is likely to revise these rules specifically for social care workers, who are crucial to the sector. Migrant workers are estimated to fill over a third of roles in adult social care, making up 32 percent of the total care worker workforce.
Sources indicate that while most workers might still face a ten-year wait for permanent settlement, this period could be reduced for those with higher incomes or who contribute significantly to their communities. The government's initial consultation on the immigration rules drew over 200,000 responses, reflecting public concern over rising immigration numbers and the increasing number of individuals eligible for indefinite leave to remain.
The proposed changes have faced opposition from figures such as Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, who reportedly described some of the initial plans as "un-British." Prime Minister also declined to publicly endorse the proposals during a recent television interview. Additionally, trade unions have lobbied the Home Secretary to reconsider the crackdown due to its potential impact on the social care workforce.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also voiced his concerns, agreeing that while contributors should be recognized, "compassion" is also necessary in immigration policy. Conversely, some within the opposition have criticized Mahmood for allegedly yielding to pressure from Rayner and other party members advocating for less stringent policies, with one spokesperson calling it a "slap in the face to British taxpayers."