Blair to take initiative on 'Tory issues' of asylum and immigration
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tony Blair is to launch a fight-back over immigration and asylum to reassure voters that Labour's policy does not make it a "soft touch" on the issue.
Tony Blair is to launch a fight-back over immigration and asylum to reassure voters that Labour's policy does not make it a "soft touch" on the issue.
Despite Labour's lead in the opinion polls, party strategists are worried asylum and immigration are the "weakest links" in their election armoury. They are the only issues on which the polls consistently give the Tories the lead.
Mr Blair has decided to address the issue head-on and will deliver a speech or devote a press conference to it in the next 10 days.
The Prime Minister faces a dilemma over how to respond to the Tories, who have made immigration a major part of their campaign.
A more hardline Labour policy could appeal to working-class voters, a group where the Tories have gained support this year. But it could alienate the top AB social group, many of whom may desert Labour because of their opposition to the Iraq war.
Mr Blair will set a "balanced approach" highlighting "strict controls" but rejecting Tory calls for a limit on asylum numbers.
He will acknowledge the economic benefits of migration and is expected to stand by Britain's "decency and tolerance" in treating asylum claims.
Today, Labour will pledge to "end the uncertainty" over breast cancer with a pledge to allow all women who find a suspicious lump to see a specialist within two weeks.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments