The Labour Party’s decision to grant amnesty to over 44,000 illegal migrants is raising alarms among British taxpayers. This new policy, proposed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, seeks to end the removal of illegal migrants to third-party countries such as Rwanda. Instead, these migrants would be allowed to stay in Britain with full access to welfare benefits.
An assessment from the Home Office has revealed the potential long-term costs of this policy, estimating that integrating these migrants could cost the country up to £17.8 billion over their lifetimes. This figure has caused concern among critics who argue that the policy will impose a significant burden on British taxpayers.
Former Conservative MP Nick Timothy has pointed out the stark difference between the savings claimed by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and the actual costs of providing welfare benefits to thousands of illegal migrants. While Cooper claims that ending the Rwanda scheme will save £7 billion, Timothy warns that the long-term costs could be more than double that amount.
Adding to the controversy, Robert Jenrick, a former immigration minister, has criticized Starmer’s plan, saying it will overwhelm local services like GP surgeries, social housing, and schools. Jenrick believes that British citizens will ultimately bear the brunt of this decision as public services become increasingly strained.
As more illegal migrants continue to cross the English Channel, with over 20,000 arriving this year alone, the debate over Labour’s amnesty policy is likely to intensify. The long-term implications for the British welfare system and taxpayers are becoming increasingly apparent, and many are questioning whether this policy is truly in the nation’s best interest.
