Immigrant Quotas: Major Hurdle for Labour's Proposed EU Returns Deal?

Exclusive: Labour's Plan to Reduce Net Migration Under Fire

Leaked Report Reveals EU Opposition to Quota-Free Returns

A bombshell report has emerged, casting doubt on the feasibility of Sir Keir Starmer's flagship immigration policy. According to the leaked document, the European Union is strongly opposed to the UK's proposed returns deal, which would allow Britain to return asylum seekers to the EU without accepting reciprocal migrant quotas.

The report, commissioned by the EU's migration commissioner, Ylva Johansson, finds that such a deal would undermine the integrity of the EU's asylum system and create a "pull factor" for illegal immigration. The EU argues that it is legally obliged to provide protection to those fleeing persecution or conflict, regardless of their country of origin.

Labour's plan to reduce net migration by ending the current rules allowing companies to pay migrant workers below the prevailing wage has also drawn criticism from business groups. The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has warned that such a policy would damage the UK economy, as many sectors rely heavily on migrant labor.

The revelations have sparked a backlash from within the Labour Party. Several activists and unions have accused Starmer of breaking an election promise to end "uncontrolled immigration." Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has labeled the proposed deal as "shameful" and "a betrayal of Labour values."

As the controversy intensifies, the future of Labour's immigration policy is uncertain. It remains to be seen whether Starmer will be able to navigate the complex and divisive issue of immigration without alienating both the EU and his own party members.