Immigration Crisis: Conservative Party's Sinking Ship and the Call for Tougher Policies

In a recent analysis of the Conservative Party’s stance on immigration, Sir Edward Leigh, a senior Tory MP, highlighted the catastrophic results of the local elections, where the party lost control to Reform UK. Following these elections, he criticized the Conservatives for failing to uphold their pledge regarding illegal immigration, specifically condemning the continued migrant crossings in small boats across the Channel.

During his appearance on BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Leigh emphasized the need for the Conservatives to adopt a more robust approach to immigration, likening it to Reform UK policies. He mentioned that although he aligns with many of their views, he remains loyal to the Conservative Party. Leigh’s discussions with party leader Kemi Badenoch have centered around taking a tougher stance against illegal immigration, insisting that anyone who approaches the UK illegally should be arrested and deported.

Highlighting the increasing concerns about legal migration, he noted that while allowing low-paid workers to support the NHS was once justified, the situation had spiraled out of control, leading to a record net migration of 906,000 between 2022 and 2023. Leigh acknowledges that the party is now facing backlash due to these policies, admitting, “We did it, we are now being punished.”

In response to the recent election outcomes, which saw Dame Andrea Jenkyns elected as the first mayor of Greater Lincolnshire, she proposed housing migrants in tents, a suggestion that Leigh disagreed with, expressing empathy for migrants fleeing dire situations around the globe.

Furthermore, the Conservative Party is considering proposals such as an annual cap on migration and extending the time frame for indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years. They seek to limit legal protections against deportations by proposing to disapply the Human Rights Act in immigration cases.

Beyond immigration, Leigh advocated for a shift in NHS funding towards a social insurance model similar to the French system, suggesting that there are pressing issues with the existing NHS framework which requires rethinking. Despite tensions within his party, Leigh expressed his dedication to persuading the Conservatives to adopt a more stringent immigration policy while maintaining his loyalty to them, insisting that he would work from within the party to drive change. A white paper detailing the government’s plans to curb migration is on the horizon, reflecting ongoing concerns and strategies regarding immigration.