Andy Burnham is set to back Shabana Mahmood’s tougher immigration reforms, risking a fresh backlash from Labour MPs who warn the party is losing support among progressive voters.
The likely next Prime Minister is expected to support plans that would require some asylum seekers to repay taxpayer-funded hotel costs and make it easier to remove people who enter the UK illegally.
More than 80 Labour backbenchers have already written to the Makerfield MP, warning that the party risks alienating its traditional supporters by backing stricter migration policies.
However, allies of Mr Burnham say he believes the reforms would create a fairer system — balancing support for genuine refugees with the concerns of communities dealing with the pressures of the current asylum system.
The move highlights the growing divide inside Labour over immigration, with the leadership attempting to present a tougher approach while some MPs demand a more liberal stance.
For Mr Burnham, backing the proposals could strengthen his credentials as a leader focused on public confidence and delivery — but it also risks reigniting tensions on the Labour benches.
Burnham’s spokesman told HuffPost: “Andy believes the public deserve an asylum system that is both compassionate and credible.
“This bill takes important steps towards restoring confidence by tackling illegal crossings while strengthening safe and legal routes for genuine refugees.
“This is about ensuring the system is fair both to those seeking protection and to the communities that welcome them.”
Leave a Comment