OPINION: Crewe and Nantwich MP says current UK net migration 'unsustainable'
Crewe and Nantwich MP, Connor Naismith has exclusively offered Labour's stance on immigration to Nub News, saying the party cannot fix the current "broken system" overnight - hitting back at Reform.
Mr Naismith said: "I know this is a sensitive issue for many and it's important that we, as politicians, don't mince our words. There is a tendency amongst those on the right to use the topic of immigration to drum up hatred towards people that they deem 'other'.
"Let me be clear: we can have a sensible conversation about immigration without the demonisation of people who come here seeking refuge or providing vital support to our economy and public services.
"Net migration soared under the Conservatives, reaching a record high under Boris Johnson of nearly one million people.
"I am proud of the contribution that many people from around the world have made to our economy and culture, but these numbers are unsustainable. Coupled with Tory austerity, it is impossible to argue that this free-market approach has not placed strain on services and housing provision.
"People rightly expect a fair, controlled system of migration, whether that be legal migration or those reaching our shores by irregular means. That is why Labour is tightening up visa routes and placing responsibility on UK employers to train and recruit British workers before looking abroad for staff.
"Under Labour, we have seen new figures which show net migration halved in a year (down to 431,000).
"On illegal immigration, I support the government in taking action to crack down on the gangs which exploit vulnerable people, be that before or after they arrive on UK soil. We also need to see claims processed more quickly so we can end the use of expensive asylum accommodation.
"I know how frustrated people are when they see images of boats washing up on our shores, but we simply cannot fix this broken system overnight.
"The failed Rwanda scheme perfectly demonstrated the perils of suggesting simple answers to complex problems.
"Turning to the recent local election results, I have said before that the government must do more, faster to improve the standard of living for working people.
"Bringing about change that people can see in their everyday lives is the only way to stop them looking for that in other political parties.
"Having said that, I fear voters will end up bitterly disappointed in their newly elected Reform councils sooner rather than later. I understand five of their councillors have already taken the phrase 'quit while you're ahead' a bit too literally."
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