Summary
The article discusses how many politicians from ethnic minority backgrounds in the UK, such as Sajid Javid and Priti Patel, have taken strong stances on immigration. These politicians have held key roles in the Home Office and have implemented strict immigration policies. The article suggests that political parties may choose minority politicians for these roles to help deflect accusations of racism.
Key Facts
- Sajid Javid, the UK's first ethnic minority home secretary, stated that current immigration policies would exclude people like his parents.
- Javid and other ethnic minority politicians have focused on limiting immigration to skilled workers and enforcing stricter English-language requirements.
- Priti Patel introduced a points-based immigration system and planned a program to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.
- Suella Braverman expressed strong support for deportation policies and desired stricter border control.
- Despite tougher rhetoric, overall immigration numbers increased during these politicians’ tenures.
- The article suggests parties use minority politicians as "reputational shields" to manage perceptions about immigration policies.
- This practice is evident in the Home Office, where non-white politicians have frequently been in charge since 2018.
- Labour has also appointed Shabana Mahmood, from an ethnic minority, to a key immigration role, reflecting this trend.
