Kemi Badenoch proposes stricter immigration policies for migrants on benefits

In 2023, Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party in the UK, proposed a stringent new immigration policy targeting migrants who claim benefits or utilize social housing. She outlined that under this policy, migrants would be disqualified from obtaining permanent residency if they had accessed public assistance. This significant shift comes after net migration reached an unprecedented high of 906,000 during the previous Conservative government. Badenoch's proposal not only disqualifies benefit claimants but also seeks to extend the time required for foreign nationals to live in the UK prior to applying for indefinite leave to remain. Currently, this period is five years, but under the new policy, it would double to ten years. Her rationale for such a change stems from the belief that too many individuals gain citizenship through this pathway too easily, raising concerns about integration and commitment to British values. The policy has sparked discussions regarding its feasibility and effectiveness, with critics already voicing skepticism about the ability to implement it successfully. Some argue that simply extending the residency requirement does not address the core issues associated with immigration and citizenship. Furthermore, Badenoch’s critics question the Conservatives’ track record in managing immigration policies during their governance, suggesting that if the current approach to citizenship was too lenient, it would have been more effective for the party to initiate changes while in power. Despite the critiques, Badenoch expressed confidence in the practicality of the policy, framing it as an essential step in ensuring the integrity of the immigration system. She emphasized the need for coherent planning and the urgency of responding promptly to legislative developments, especially since Labour was preparing to present its own immigration bill. While her party aims to strengthen control over immigration, it remains to be seen whether this policy will resonate with the voters who defected to parties like Reform during the Conservatives’ previous terms in government.