The Labour Party’s proposal to grant amnesty to over 44,000 illegal migrants is generating significant concern over the potential impact on Britain’s welfare system. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is planning to end the policy of removing illegal migrants to third-party countries, like Rwanda, allowing them to remain in the UK and access welfare benefits.
An internal report from the Home Office has highlighted the financial implications of this policy, estimating that the long-term cost of integrating these migrants into the welfare system could reach £17.8 billion. This figure has raised alarms among critics who argue that the policy will place an unfair burden on British taxpayers.
Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick has voiced concerns that the decision will add to the pressure on public services, such as GP surgeries, social housing, and schools. Jenrick has accused Starmer of capitulating to people-smuggling gangs by granting amnesty to illegal migrants, warning that British citizens will ultimately pay the price for this policy.
The controversy has been further amplified by the stark difference between the savings claimed by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and the estimated long-term costs. Cooper asserts that ending the Rwanda scheme will save the taxpayer £7 billion, but critics like former Conservative MP Nick Timothy argue that the true cost could be more than double that amount.
With over 20,000 illegal migrants having already crossed the English Channel this year, the pressure on Britain’s welfare system is only expected to increase. As the debate over Labour’s amnesty policy continues, many are questioning whether this is the right path for the country and whether British taxpayers should be left to shoulder the burden.
