“If trust shaken, the system collapses”

15 April 2026

Strong response from Spencer West LLP and Gherson Solicitors to ILR debate

Striking responses have come from UK legal experts to comments by Nigel Farage and Reform UK on Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Experts emphasised that reopening debate on migrants’ rights could risk not only individuals, but also the UK’s legal credibility and the integrity of the system.

ILR DEBATE INTENSIFIES: CRITICAL WARNING FROM LEGAL EXPERTS

As political debate continues in the UK over Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), statements from two leading law firms have drawn attention. Following comments made earlier in the day by Nigel Farage and Reform UK, the assessments of two immigration lawyers were shared with the public.

The statements were released by communications consultant Giselle Daverat.

LEGAL RESPONSE TO FARAGE’S COMMENTS

Lawrence Lupin (Partner, Spencer West LLP) evaluated the morning statements and expressed the following views:

Farage’s remarks characterise post-2021 migration to the UK and future settlement rights as a “Boris wave” and an “economic burden,” suggesting that this could be addressed by restricting access to ILR.

While effective migration control is a legitimate objective, it must be questioned whether such characterisations fully reflect legal and economic realities. This approach risks oversimplification and may amount to political rhetoric.

The individuals in question have lived in the country legally for years under immigration rules, working and contributing to society. Many are economically active, tax-paying, and support sectors facing labour shortages. To define this group solely as an “economic burden” is to overlook their role in economic growth and their fiscal contributions.

Moreover, any attempt to retrospectively restrict settlement rights would be highly complex, carry serious legal consequences, and risk undermining workforce stability and trust in the system.

A balanced migration policy that combines effective control with confidence for businesses remains crucial for planning and investment.

“ECONOMIC BURDEN” NARRATIVE DOES NOT REFLECT REALITY

Lisa Uttley (Immigration Partner, Gherson Solicitors) also rejected the characterisation of ILR as an “economic burden,” stating:

The suggestion that granting settlement creates an “economic burden” risks oversimplifying a highly complex issue. This approach does not accurately reflect the structure of post-2021 migration flows or the legal framework of the UK’s settlement system.

A significant proportion of individuals arriving during this period have come through work routes, filling skills shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, and infrastructure. These individuals are not only economically active, but also contribute to the tax system and progress through structured pathways to settlement under existing immigration rules. These systems are designed to support economic growth.

At the same time, the United Kingdom has clear international obligations under the UN Refugee Convention. The protection and integration of individuals granted refugee status form part of these obligations, and settlement is a critical component of this process.

Any move to remove or fundamentally alter settlement rights would raise serious concerns regarding workforce stability, legal predictability, and the UK’s position as a trusted destination for global talent and investment.
Founder – GD Public Relations Limited
Founder – GD Public Relations Limited

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