We write with grave concern about the government’s proposed changes to settlement and citizenship rules (Report, 5 March). We urge ministers to slow down and rethink their proposals, which contain serious flaws. Massive changes to rules that could shape the lives of more than a million people in the UK for the next 20 years or more should not be made in haste.
There is already significant disquiet among communities, employers, faith groups and civil society that these measures would be damaging to integration. Stability, belonging and a clear pathway to citizenship are essential to building cohesive communities. Policies that make status more precarious and pathways more distant risk undermining that.
It is reasonable for the government to consider settlement reforms. But their impact should be to strengthen integration and encourage contribution, not to make both harder to achieve. The government should pause, listen and revise these proposals so that they are fair, proportionate and consistent with the UK’s longstanding commitment to fairness and inclusion.
Right Rev Arun Arora Bishop of Kirkstall, Imam Qari Asim Leeds Makkah mosque, Right Rev Adam Atkinson Bishop of Bradwell, Rabbi Rebecca Birk Finchley progressive synagogue, Raymond Friel CEO, Caritas Social Action Network, Rabbi Naomi Goldman Kol Chai Reform synagogue, Right Rev Dr Anderson Jeremiah Bishop of Edmonton, Right Rev Dr Rosemarie Mallett Bishop of Croydon, Rabbi David Mason Executive director, HIAS+JCORE, Right Rev Mary Gregory Bishop of Reading, Right Rev Martyn Snow Lord Bishop of Leicester and Right Rev Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani Bishop of Chelmsford
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