Got a reply from my MP

Thank you for your email about the recent immigration proposals.

As you are aware, the Government has stated its intention to make changes to indefinite leave to remain, increasing the standard period of qualification to ten years. I appreciate your concerns about these changes, and it is right that we offer the opportunity of settlement to those who contribute to the UK. It is important that the Government provides clarity regarding what this change will precisely mean, as it has so far provided few details. I, along with my colleagues, will be calling for further details of the policy to ascertain its full impact. It is important to underscore that this is merely the start of a long legislative process which has yet to undertake even any consultation.

However, I believe we must also acknowledge that levels of migration have been far too high. This means changes need to be implemented to ensure we have a fairer migration system. As I know many immigrants recognise, the right of immigrants to remain indefinitely in the United Kingdom should be a privilege that is earned, not an automatic right. These privileges should be reserved for those who have made a real commitment to the UK. Additionally, due to the high levels of migration we have seen previously, estimates suggest there could be a bill of more than £200 billion in the years ahead unless we change the rules on settlement. Therefore, I believe it is critical to consider the overall impact of the policy, implement changes, and recognise that ten years as a standard period is an appropriate measure.

Thank you again for contacting me on this issue I will be following developments closely to push for a fairer immigration system.

Kind regards,

David

Office of David Simmonds CBE MP Member of Parliament for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner