Saturday, March 29, 2025
Over 25 prominent faith leaders urge Starmer to Change Migrant Narrative to revise his stance on immigration. They responded to his recent speech, where he described Britain as an “island of strangers.”
The group includes senior Christian, Muslim, and Jewish leaders. They believe that the prime minister’s language risks deepening fear and division in British society. Their letter came shortly after Starmer spoke ahead of the government’s immigration white paper, which has faced backlash from rights groups.
Fourteen Anglican bishops signed the letter, along with leaders from the Methodist, Baptist, Scottish Episcopal, and United Reformed churches. Imam Qari Asim and Rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg also joined. The Jewish refugee charity HIAS+JCORE coordinated the effort.
The faith leaders warn that the speech could inflame public anxiety. They criticized Starmer’s reference to the “incalculable” damage of “uncontrolled migration.” They fear such statements could alienate migrant communities and empower divisive rhetoric.
“People came to the UK through legal routes set by past governments,” the letter explains. “They paid high fees and taxes. Calling this unfair feeds into resentment.”
The faith leaders ask Starmer to use a more compassionate narrative. They want policies that focus on unity, not fear. Many migrants belong to their congregations and have become vital to British life.
“Through shared experience, we learn our common humanity,” the letter says. “We urge the government to foster positive integration.”
They believe this approach will better address the asylum system’s issues. The leaders support fair policies that help host communities and offer real hope to refugees. They warn that failing to adopt a balanced and inclusive approach will not only marginalize migrants but will weaken national unity and shared identity.
The prime minister’s office has not yet responded.
