Home secretary slams Reform migrant plans as ‘dog whistle’ for racists
Related: Rachel Reeves takes aim at Farage and Reform during Labour conference speech
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has fiercely criticised Reform UK's immigration proposals, labelling them "immoral" and "extreme" and suggesting Nigel Farage used a "dog whistle" to appeal to racists.
Reform UK's controversial plans include abolishing indefinite leave to remain and requiring migrants with settled status to reapply for stricter visas.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also described Reform’s policy as racist, although Chancellor Rachel Reeves said that voters can support Reform without being racist themselves.
Mr Farage accused Sir Keir of insulting those who advocate for reduced migration, while Reform's Zia Yusuf defended the party’s policy as reasonable.
Labour also announced its own immigration reforms , requiring migrants to demonstrate societal contribution, English proficiency and a clean criminal record, to secure residency in the UK.