Starmer condemns Farage's immigration plan as racist and immoral
- Keir Starmer criticized a proposed immigration policy by Nigel Farage aimed at abolishing Indefinite Leave to Remain.
- Starmer labeled the policy as racist and immoral, emphasizing its potential impact on lawful migrants.
- The debate reflects rising tensions in UK immigration discourse and could influence the political landscape.
In the United Kingdom, on September 28, 2023, Prime Minister Keir Starmer publicly criticized proposals by Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, regarding the immigration system. Farage's plan aims to abolish the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) status which allows certain migrants to reside and work in the UK without restrictions. Instead, Farage proposes a five-year work visa system, imposing stricter qualifications such as English proficiency and sufficient income. This policy change is framed by Farage as necessary to alleviate strains on public services caused by an influx of low-skilled migrants since Brexit. Starmer's comments came during a Labour Party conference and were intended to address ongoing frustrations regarding immigration and public sentiments. He characterized Farage's policy as both racist and immoral, suggesting it would unjustly target law-abiding migrants who contribute to society, labeling them as neighbors and essential parts of the community. Starmer argued that the ramifications of such a policy could lead to division and harm within society, stating it would