The Energy Secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh, has clarified her stance on the government's migration policy after facing backlash for earlier comments that suggested she could not support key changes. During a journalists’ event in Westminster, Fahnbulleh referred to an "awkward" interview with Sky News, where she hesitated to endorse plans that would require foreign workers to wait 15 years for permanent residency.
Context of the Remarks
Fahnbulleh stated, "I made three promises to myself when I came into politics. The first was never lie, which has created some awkward moments, including being interviewed by Sophy Ridge yesterday." Her comments were perceived negatively by some colleagues in government, prompting speculation about whether No 10 requested a clarification.
Clarification Issued
On Thursday evening, Fahnbulleh took to social media to clarify her earlier remarks, stating:
“"Today I made what was meant to be a lighthearted, self-deprecating remark. I didn’t get it right and it hasn’t come off as I intended. I fully support our home secretary and the government’s position on migration reform. As I said earlier this week, it’s absolutely right that people should have to make a contribution to this country in order to earn citizenship."
This clarification highlights the ongoing division within the cabinet regarding the proposed migration changes. Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, is currently consulting on plans to extend the waiting period for foreign workers to claim indefinite leave to remain (ILR) from five to 15 years, retroactively applying to anyone arriving from 2021 onwards.
