Sir Keir Starmer condemned Reform UK’s proposal to scrap indefinite leave to remain (ILR) as “racist” and “immoral,” arguing it would target people living legally in the UK and harm communities.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage wants migrants to reapply for visas under stricter rules, while Labour plans only to double the period for ILR from five to ten years.

Starmer said supporters of Reform are largely frustrated voters, not racists, and called for party unity to counter the challenge.

Public opinion is divided, with polls showing 58% opposed to removing ILR for those who already hold it, while 44% support ending it as policy, the BBC has reported.

At Labour’s conference, Starmer emphasized the need for time to address 14 years of Conservative “failures” and reaffirmed the party’s manifesto commitments, including a cautious approach to taxes.