TUC general secretary Paul Nowak has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to overhaul Shabana Mahmood’s migration reforms, describing them as ‘fundamentally unfair’ and warning they risk placing additional pressure on social care and stoking support for the far right.
Speaking ahead of the TUC’s annual congress in Brighton next week, Nowak said he welcomed the "sense of optimism" around Burnham’s fledgling government but warned that immediate action was needed on several fronts, including migration policy and measures to address the cost of living.
Warning over migration changes
Nowak argued that the specific immigration changes under consideration could exacerbate strains on social care services, potentially leaving providers unable to meet demand. He also cautioned that policies perceived as unjust could feed grievances that far-right groups exploit for political gain.
The intervention signals that the TUC plans to press the government during its Brighton congress, emphasising workers’ concerns about public services and economic pressures. Nowak stopped short of setting out an exhaustive list of alternative measures, but stressed the need for revisions to ensure fairness and to protect vital services.
The TUC’s annual gathering, which draws union leaders and delegates from across the country, will be a focal point for debate over the new administration’s agenda and for unions to set priorities for engagement with ministers in the coming months. Nowak’s remarks underline the organisation’s intent to hold the government to account on policies affecting public services and living standards.