Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has signalled that the Government may soften its proposed immigration reforms after acknowledging concerns that parts of the plan are unfair. Speaking at Labour’s conference, she said the final approach would balance fairness to people who came to Britain legally with fairness to British citizens; no decision has yet been made, with the outcome of the consultation expected in autumn.

The proposals could extend the wait for some migrant workers to qualify for indefinite leave to remain from five years to as long as 15, and apply retrospectively to people who arrived from 2021. Unison’s general secretary criticised the plan, particularly its effects on care workers, while Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner also raised concerns about changing the rules after people had moved to Britain. Andy Burnham said the consultation reflected a range of views, and the Prime Minister said ministers were considering whether retrospective changes should apply.