Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Poll: 39% Back ILR Extension, Divided on Retroactive Change

3/30/2026

36 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A BMG Research poll shows 39% of voters support Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's plan to extend the ILR qualifying period from five to ten years.
Voters are divided on applying the change retrospectively to migrants in the UK, with 36% in favor and 30% against.
The split is most evident among Labour voters, which complicates Sir Keir Starmer's response to dissent within the party.

1 of 1

Story summary

A BMG Research poll shows 39% of voters support Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's plan to extend the ILR qualifying period from five to ten years.
Voters are divided on applying the change retrospectively to migrants in the UK, with 36% in favor and 30% against.
The split is most evident among Labour voters, which complicates Sir Keir Starmer's response to dissent within the party.