Shabana Mahmood is poised to caution that the lack of control over borders is undermining public trust in politicians and the overall integrity of the state.
The Home Secretary will advocate for a coordinated global effort to address illegal migration. This initiative coincides with her meeting with European counterparts to combat criminal organizations utilizing the Western Balkans as a key route for human and drug trafficking.
According to the Home Office, nearly 22,000 individuals were trafficked through routes in the region in 2024, enriching criminal groups at the expense of human suffering and endangering lives.
Ms. Mahmood is anticipated to convene with ministers from various European countries, including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, France, Greece, and Italy.
In her address, she will emphasize the fundamental expectation of citizens for governments to regulate entry and exit from their countries effectively, a task that is currently falling short in many nations, including the UK.
Failure to establish order at borders not only diminishes trust in political leaders but also undermines the credibility of the state itself.
This development follows the introduction of a new legislation in Parliament requiring migrants to achieve A-level proficiency in English to work in the UK. Applicants via specific legal channels must demonstrate competence in speaking, listening, reading, and writing at an A-level equivalent. They will need to undertake a Secure English Language Test approved by the Home Office.
The results will be validated during the visa application process. These changes are part of Labour’s Immigration White Paper, which aims to tighten visa regulations, including reducing the post-study work period for international students from two years to 18 months.
These adjustments are scheduled to take effect from January 2027. Additionally, the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) paid by employers sponsoring skilled foreign workers will increase from £364 to £480 per person annually for small or charitable organizations, and from £1,000 to £1,320 for medium and large enterprises.
The funds generated from this charge will be reinvested in training the UK’s local workforce. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood emphasized the importance of migrants learning the English language and actively contributing to the nation’s development upon entering the country.