In a heated exchange on BBC Question Time, host Fiona Bruce clashed with Labour Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith over the Government’s controversial new immigration policy. The discussion centered on changes to the way migrants are granted indefinite leave to remain under Sir Keir Starmer’s policies, particularly for those who have entered the UK illegally and successfully claim asylum.
During the program, Ms Bruce pressed the minister on the benefits that indefinite leave to remain brings to those granted the status, reported the Express. She noted that while this immigration status offers significant advantages—such as access to Universal Credit and the NHS—it now no longer comes with a passport or the ability to stand in public office. In questioning the effectiveness of these limitations as a deterrent, Ms Bruce asked pointedly: “Do you think that’s the thing that’s going to make the difference?”
