Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under fresh fire as party heavyweight Alan Johnson warns that Britain’s prestigious higher education system is “under threat” due to Labour’s proposed crackdown on immigration. This internal dissent comes just days after former Prime Minister Tony Blair critiqued the party’s lagging climate and border policies—adding to growing unease over Labour’s direction ahead of a major immigration white paper.
Alan Johnson’s Stark Warning
In a candid interview with the BBC, the former Education Secretary Alan Johnson delivered a harsh assessment of Labour’s current trajectory, warning that attempts to curb net migration could seriously damage the UK’s global higher education standing.
“They need to recognise that we have world-class universities, and they are under threat for a variety of reasons,” Johnson said.
“If they make the mistake of believing that the way to solve the migration problem is to ruin our universities and close some of them… they will be making a very big mistake.”
Johnson’s remarks are seen as a direct critique of Labour’s forthcoming immigration white paper, expected to include tough new measures targeting international student migration.
What’s at Stake for Higher Education?
British universities rely heavily on tuition fees from overseas students, who pay significantly more than domestic students and contribute billions to the UK economy. Beyond revenue, foreign students are seen as vital to academic diversity, research excellence, and international prestige.
Policies that discourage these students from staying in the UK post-graduation—through visa restrictions or caps—could lead to:
- Falling international student enrolment
- Shrinking university budgets
- Potential course and department closures
- Diminished UK appeal as a global academic leader
Tony Blair’s Climate Critique Adds Pressure
Johnson’s comments followed soon after Tony Blair’s own warnings, in which the former Labour PM chastised both Conservative and Labour leadership for failing to keep pace with global demands on climate and migration reform. Blair suggested that the party needed to confront border control more realistically, including consideration of ID card systems and tighter policy messaging.
Labour’s Upcoming Immigration Crackdown
Starmer and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper are preparing to release a comprehensive white paper outlining Labour’s strategy to address soaring net migration, which hit a record 900,000 in 2023.
Though specific proposals have not been released, insiders suggest the plan will:
- Make it harder for overseas students to remain in the UK
- Implement tighter controls on student visa extensions
- Limit dependents accompanying student visa holders
- Emphasize reducing total net migration figures
Reaction Within Labour Party
The policy has triggered concern among Labour MPs, particularly those in university-heavy constituencies. Some are wary that targeting student migration may appear anti-education or xenophobic, risking backlash from:
- Younger voters
- University staff and students
- International allies and academic institutions
The “Red Wall Caucus”—Labour MPs from traditionally working-class regions—have also voiced concerns, but from a different angle, pushing for tougher migration controls to fend off Reform UK challengers.
Political Risks and Public Perception
Labour is navigating a high-risk balancing act: addressing legitimate voter concerns over immigration while not alienating key groups such as progressive urban voters, international communities, and education stakeholders.
The Starmer-led party must also avoid echoing Tory rhetoric too closely, which could erode its credibility and suppress enthusiasm among its youth base and university-educated supporters.
Reform UK’s Influence
Driving much of this shift is the rising presence of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, which is attracting voters in areas disillusioned with both major parties. Reform’s hardline stance on immigration is pushing Labour to appear tougher on borders, especially as general election pressures intensify.
Conclusion
Labour’s anticipated immigration policy changes have already sparked deep internal debate and public concern—even before being officially unveiled. With leading voices like Alan Johnson and Tony Blair sounding alarms, Keir Starmer now faces a critical test: can he manage the delicate political balance between firm border policy and safeguarding Britain’s educational excellence?
The answer may determine not only Labour’s electoral chances but also the future of one of the UK’s most globally respected sectors.
FAQs
Q1: What did Alan Johnson say about Labour’s immigration plans?
A: He warned that Labour’s stance could threaten the UK’s world-class universities by discouraging international students.
Q2: What is the upcoming white paper about?
A: It’s Labour’s detailed policy plan on controlling net migration, expected to include restrictions on overseas students staying after graduation.
Q3: Why is this controversial within Labour?
A: Critics say it could harm higher education and alienate young and progressive voters, while others say tougher controls are necessary to win Red Wall seats.
Q4: What role is Reform UK playing in this?
A: The party’s growing influence is pressuring Labour to adopt more conservative immigration policies.
Q5: When will the white paper be published?
A: It is expected to be released in the coming weeks, ahead of the next legislative session.
