In a passionate and straightforward speech, Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Labour’s approach to immigration, saying they have failed to address the issue properly. Standing alongside Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, she spoke about the urgent need for change in how the UK manages immigration and admitted that her own party had made mistakes in the past.
Badenoch was clear in her acknowledgment that the Conservatives had not delivered on their promises during their time in government. She admitted that the points-based immigration system, which was meant to attract only skilled workers, ended up allowing too many low-wage workers and their dependents into the country. “We got it wrong,” she said, adding that it was important to recognize these failures and learn from them.
The Conservative leader accused Labour of making the situation worse since coming to power. She claimed that Labour has already reversed key measures that were designed to cut migration numbers, such as increasing income thresholds for family visas and introducing tougher controls on illegal immigration. Badenoch argued that Labour has no serious plan to tackle these issues and warned that their approach will only lead to more problems. “Labour urged us to relax immigration controls for 14 years, and now, in power, they’re undoing the reforms we put in place,” she said.
Chris Philp supported Badenoch’s criticism, pointing out that high levels of immigration have put significant pressure on housing, schools, healthcare, and public services. He shared that since 2010, immigration has added 3.7 million people to the UK’s population, which is more than the population of Wales. He also highlighted that many migrants do not integrate into British society, with over one million people in the UK unable to speak English well or at all.
Badenoch and Philp both emphasized the need for a better system. They proposed stricter limits on the number of people allowed to move to the UK each year, tougher penalties for illegal immigration, and changes to work visa rules so that only high-skilled workers who truly benefit the economy can come. Badenoch also said that becoming a British citizen should be seen as a privilege that must be earned, not an automatic right.
They were firm in their belief that immigration should not only focus on the benefits but also consider the challenges it creates, such as pressure on housing and public services. Badenoch stated, “For decades, politicians have ignored the costs of migration, and that must change.”
The Conservative leader also expressed her desire to rebuild public trust. She promised to present a detailed plan for immigration before the next election, giving voters a clear choice between Labour’s approach and a more structured, fair, and sustainable system from the Conservatives. She ended her speech by saying, “This country is not a dormitory or a hotel—it is our home. We must look after it.”
The speech has sparked strong reactions. Supporters praised Badenoch’s honesty and determination to tackle a sensitive issue, while critics questioned whether the Conservatives could truly deliver change after years of high migration under their leadership. However, one thing is clear: immigration remains one of the biggest challenges in UK politics, and today’s speech has reignited the debate.
