Shabana Mahmood is poised to caution that the lack of control over borders is undermining public trust in politicians and the authority of the state.
The Home Secretary will urge for a coordinated global effort to address illegal migration. This call to action coincides with her meeting with European counterparts to combat criminal organizations exploiting the Western Balkans as a key corridor for human trafficking and drug smuggling.
According to the Home Office, nearly 22,000 individuals were trafficked through routes in the region in 2024, enriching criminal groups profiting from human suffering and endangering lives.
Ms. Mahmood will be accompanied by officials from various European countries, including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, France, Greece, and Italy.
She will emphasize, “Our citizens expect a fundamental duty from us. They rightfully anticipate that their government can regulate who enters and exits their nation. However, this essential function is lacking in many countries, including our own.”
The recent introduction of legislation in Parliament mandates that migrants must attain A-level proficiency in English to work in the UK. Applicants following specific legal channels must demonstrate A-level equivalent skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. They must undergo a Secure English Language Test administered by an approved Home Office provider.
These test results will be scrutinized as part of the visa application process. The policy shift is part of Labour’s Immigration White Paper and includes reducing the period for international students to secure a job at graduate level post-studies from two years to 18 months.
These measures are scheduled to take effect from January 2027. Additionally, the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) levied on employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers is being increased from £364 to £480 per person annually for small or charitable organizations, and from £1,000 to £1,320 for medium to large organizations.
The funds generated from this charge are reinvested in training the UK’s workforce. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated, “While the UK has historically welcomed contributors, it is imperative that migrants arriving here learn our language and actively participate in our society. Integration requires learning our language and engaging in our community.”
