Keir Starmer REFUSES to Set Immigration Target After Criticizing Tories for ‘Open Borders

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hit out at the Conservative Party’s immigration policies, accusing them of creating a “deliberate open borders experiment” that led to record-high migration numbers. However, while he has promised to take action, Starmer has stopped short of setting a specific target or “milestone” for reducing immigration figures, sparking debate about his approach.

Speaking recently, Starmer blamed the Conservatives for what he called an “unforgivable” failure to manage the UK’s borders. He claimed that the Tories used Brexit as an excuse to liberalize immigration under the slogan of “Global Britain,” resulting in high net migration figures. Starmer argued that these policies were not accidental but were “by design.”

He pointed to the Conservatives’ reliance on foreign labor as a policy choice that has left the UK over-dependent on workers from abroad, rather than investing in the skills and training of its own people.

While Starmer has been vocal in his criticism, he has refused to commit to specific numbers for reducing migration. He described setting targets as “arbitrary” and said the focus should be on long-term reforms. Instead of announcing a concrete figure, Starmer promised to tighten visa rules and make it harder for companies to rely on cheap foreign labor. He also emphasized the need to train British workers to fill jobs in sectors like health care, construction, and hospitality.

Starmer insisted that this approach would help rebuild trust in the immigration system while addressing labor shortages without relying on high migration.

Starmer’s refusal to set specific immigration targets has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue that focusing on reform rather than arbitrary numbers is a more thoughtful approach. They believe training UK workers will create lasting solutions rather than quick fixes.

Critics, however, are less impressed. Many feel that without clear targets, it will be difficult to measure the success of Labour’s immigration policies. Some voters worry this approach lacks the urgency needed to address their concerns about high migration levels.

The Conservatives were quick to accuse Starmer of “talking tough” on immigration while offering little in the way of concrete action. Meanwhile, some immigration experts say Labour needs to balance public concerns with the economic reality that some industries rely heavily on migrant workers.

Immigration remains one of the most debated issues in UK politics. While Starmer’s criticism of the Conservative government has resonated with many, his refusal to commit to a clear reduction milestone leaves questions about how Labour will tackle this complex issue.

For now, Starmer’s approach seems focused on building a sustainable immigration system through reforms rather than making bold promises. Whether this will satisfy voters remains to be seen as the next general election looms.