Meeting held on Wed 19th November 2025
12 people were present. Two sent their apologies.
There were complaints that Labour was adopting policies on immigration like Reform, in order to attract voters that might otherwise support Reform. In the process votes are lost from the left of the Party.
There was a difference of view about whether Reform might win the next General Election. While their poll ratings are high, there is evidence (eg the Welsh election in Caerphilly) that opposing parties would collaborate to ensure that Reform do not win. In this context the recent policy of the Home Secretary was viewed with some favour by Reform and Tories.
The suggestion was made that safe routes were feasible, thereby making the crossing by boat unattractive. Labour says little about this and also says little to recommend the positive value of immigrants. As the UK population become increasingly elderly, we will need immigrants to supplement our diminishing workforce. Furthermore, why are asylum seekers not allowed to work? Labour leadership also says little to challenge the anti-foreigner sentiments of the right wing parties and their press.
Much that is said in the debates about immigration is factually incorrect. Few people realise that only 13% of immigrants come to UK seeking asylum, and only 5% do so in small boats. Few also realise that immigrants (perhaps because of their younger age profile) provide more to the Revenue in taxation than the average UK person. The distinctions between immigrants, asylum seekers and illegal immigrants are perhaps deliberately confused by the right.
Some complained that Labour lacked a clear vision or narrative. This is perhaps due to poor communication, as well as a predominantly hostile media. Or is there a deliberate policy to go gently in order to avoid hostile reception from “The Bond Markets” (ie powerful financial interests)? But we were puzzled that Labour chose, in so many instances (eg two-child cap, winter heating support) to make decisions which place the burden of savings on the poorest in society. There appeared to be no effort to ensure that the wealthiest should pay their due.
We returned to the topic of electoral reform which seems to be even more important now that we no longer have two main political parties.
The next meeting of What’s Left will be on the third Wednesday in January: 21st.