In the lead-up to the government’s anticipated unveiling of new immigration controls, Conservative MP Chris Philp has voiced strong opposition to Labour’s proposed reduction in migration numbers. Speaking during an appearance on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Philp criticized Labour’s plan—spearheaded by Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper—to reduce net migration by 50,000 people, calling it “too little” in light of the broader national context. According to Philp, the previous Conservative government had already set in motion changes projected to decrease migration by up to half a million annually. In his view, Labour’s plan pales in comparison and fails to address the deeper systemic issues fueling high migration levels.
Philp emphasized that the Conservative Party intends to propose a more comprehensive framework for migration control in Parliament. Central to their strategy is the introduction of an annual migration cap, which would be debated and set by Parliament. This measure, he argues, is designed to restore democratic oversight and ensure greater accountability in immigration policy. He criticized the reliance of businesses on low-wage, low-skill migrant labor, suggesting it has discouraged investment in automation and technological innovation. Moreover, he expressed concern over the underutilization of the UK’s domestic workforce, citing nine million working-age adults who are currently unemployed.
The Conservative plan, according to Philp, would go far beyond Labour’s suggestions, although specific numerical targets have not yet been finalized. He indicated that the reduction would significantly surpass the 50,000 mark. Despite not disclosing an exact figure, Philp made it clear that the Tory proposal would seek to reverse what they describe as a long-standing imbalance in migration policy. He also implied that Labour’s leadership—particularly Cooper and Keir Starmer—would likely oppose the Conservative measure when it is brought forward.
On her part, Yvette Cooper defended Labour’s approach, arguing that setting rigid numerical targets has historically undermined the credibility of immigration policy. Rather than issuing blanket promises, she stated that Labour aims for practical, targeted reforms that can deliver measurable results. Cooper acknowledged that certain visa modifications, such as tightening the rules for skilled and care worker visas, could contribute to a reduction of up to 50,000 in lower-skilled migration over the next year. However, she stressed that Labour is steering away from the Conservative pattern of setting migration targets that often go unmet.
As the political debate intensifies, both parties appear to be drawing stark lines around the issue of immigration—a topic that continues to stir public concern and influence electoral outcomes. While the Conservatives aim to present a tougher, more quantifiable approach, Labour maintains a focus on credibility and strategic policy shifts. Monday’s announcement and the ensuing vote in Parliament are expected to bring these differences into sharp relief, potentially shaping the direction of UK immigration policy for years to come.
