London– British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Monday that the United Kingdom could become an “island of strangers” if tougher immigration policies are not implemented. Speaking at a press briefing on the government’s new Immigration White Paper, Starmer announced a sweeping set of reforms aimed at tightening control over migration and reinforcing national unity.
As part of the proposed changes, the residency requirement to obtain permanent settlement in the UK will be doubled—from five years to ten. Starmer emphasized that while the UK is a diverse and welcoming nation, that diversity must be supported by a shared commitment to integration.
“In a diverse nation like ours—and I celebrate that—these rules become even more important. Without them, we risk becoming an island of strangers, not a nation that walks forward together,” Starmer said.
The prime minister criticized the current immigration system as one that has been open to abuse, enabling companies to prioritize cheap labor over investing in the domestic workforce. “When you have an immigration system that seems almost designed to permit abuse—encouraging businesses to bring in lower-paid workers rather than invest in our young people—you’re not championing growth or justice. You’re contributing to the forces that are slowly pulling our country apart,” he said.
Key changes laid out in the White Paper include raising the skill threshold for migrant workers to degree-level qualifications, tightening English language requirements across all visa categories—including for dependents—and implementing stronger enforcement measures.
Starmer acknowledged the vital contributions migrants have made to the UK’s history, particularly during post-war reconstruction, and affirmed that immigration remains an important part of the country’s future. “Migrants were part of the great rebuilding after the war, and they continue to make a massive contribution today. You’ll never hear me deny that. But when people come to our country, they should also commit to integration, to learning our language. Our system should actively distinguish between those who do and those who don’t. I believe that’s fair,” he said.
He explained that the proposed reforms will touch every aspect of the immigration system—covering work, family, and study routes—and are designed to give the government more control over who comes to the UK and under what conditions.
“Skill requirements raised to degree level. English language requirements enforced across the board. The path to settled status extended to ten years. And enforcement tougher than ever—because fair rules must be followed,” he added.
Starmer positioned the new immigration framework as a “clean break with the past,” linking access to visas directly to domestic investment. “If a business wants to bring in workers from abroad, they must first invest in Britain. Settlement should be seen as a privilege to be earned—not an automatic right. It should come easier to those who contribute, who work hard, pay taxes, and help rebuild our country,” he concluded.
The White Paper, according to Starmer, aims to reduce net migration, boost the skill level of the workforce, support British workers, and begin restoring the social contract between the government and its citizens. (Source: IANS)
