Labour leader Keir Starmer has significantly escalated his rhetoric against Reform UK, unequivocally branding their policy to end indefinite leave to remain as “racist” and “immoral.” This declaration marks a pivotal shift in Labour’s approach, with Starmer asserting that the policy, which threatens the lives of people long settled in Britain, must be called out for what it is. The prime minister’s stance, articulated in a conference interview and set to be expanded in a major speech, aims to draw a clear moral and political distinction between Labour and Reform UK.

Reform UK's controversial proposal seeks to abolish indefinite leave to remain, a status currently available to individuals who have lived and worked legally in the UK for five continuous years, along with their dependents. Its retrospective application means it could impact tens of thousands of people, including those in critical public sector jobs who might not meet new, high salary thresholds, and individuals unable to pursue British citizenship due to birth nations disallowing dual nationality. Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has also indicated that a Reform government would require potential citizens to renounce their foreign citizenship rights. Labour strategists view this policy as a significant