Title: Burnham Calls for Further Reduction in Net Migration

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has stated that UK net migration must decrease further, following the release of new government statistics indicating a near-50% drop since 2024. Speaking as the Labour candidate for the Makerfield by-election, Burnham noted that residents have frequently expressed worries about immigration during his doorstep campaigns. He pointed out that the latest data, which calculates the disparity between those entering and exiting the country, demonstrates a "significantly down" trend.

According to Office for National Statistics figures released on Thursday, the net addition to the UK’s population last year was 171,000 people. This marks the lowest level recorded since 2012, excluding the period of the Covid pandemic. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the figures, stating that there is "more to do" in this area.

Burnham emphasized that the government must "get the balance right" regarding proposals to restrict the ability of migrants to settle permanently. He expressed support for the general direction of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s plans, describing them as "fair" and necessary to prevent a "drain on our public finances." However, the proposals have faced criticism from some Labour colleagues. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and other MPs have labeled the retrospective aspects of the changes as "un-British," accusing the government of "moving the goalposts."

Despite this internal dissent, Burnham highlighted the ongoing consultation on the Home Secretary’s measures, asserting, "We'll have to work hard to get the balance right, but the broad thrust of what she's doing is right." Indefinite leave to remain, or settlement, currently allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely and claim eligible benefits. The Home Office projects that approximately 1.6 million people could gain settlement between 2026 and 2030 if the proposed changes are not enacted.

In addition to immigration, Burnham addressed his evolving stance on single-sex spaces. When questioned about accepting new guidance from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which states that facilities such as toilets and changing rooms should be allocated based on biological sex, Burnham confirmed his acceptance of a recent Supreme Court ruling. The court determined that the definition of a woman under the Equality Act is based on biological sex and must be implemented.

Burnham admitted that his position has shifted, telling the BBC, "I'll be honest, yes. I've followed the debate as it's gone along over the years." He clarified that while he previously suggested only a "small minority" had issues with trans women—biological males identifying as women—in women’s toilets, he now recognizes the need for balance. He stressed that the ruling should not be viewed as a "victory over other people in society," warning that marginalized groups should not face further marginalization. Describing his approach as "live and let live," Burnham seeks a solution that is fair, acknowledges everyone’s concerns, and fosters unity.

Burnham is running for a return to Westminster in the Greater Manchester constituency, a move widely seen as a potential launchpad for a challenge to Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership if he secures a seat. During his campaign launch on Friday, Burnham framed his candidacy as a "vote to change Labour," aiming to restore the party to what he described as its former identity.

This comes amid intense speculation regarding Starmer’s future following Labour’s disappointing performance in the recent general election. Although dozens of MPs have urged the Prime Minister to resign, no formal challenge has been issued, and Starmer has refused to step down. Starmer has confirmed he will campaign for Burnham in the by-election, characterizing the contest as a "straight fight between Labour and Reform."

Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon, a councillor and self-employed plumber who finished second to Labour in 2024, dismissed the idea that Makerfield is a strategic stepping stone for his party. Kenyon made the comment on X, posting a video of himself driving his van with Reform branding.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-05-22 15:11:26 UTC