Two Parties, One Path: Why Labour and Reform Are Converging on Policy

Labour and Reform UK have spent the past few days locked in a renewed political clash over immigration, following Nigel Farage's proposal to scrap indefinite leave to remain for migrants. The proposal faced sharp pushback from Labour figures, including party leader Sir Keir Starmer, who denounced the policy as 'racist' and 'immoral'.

Yet critics argue that Labour's own proposals, such as the introduction of digital IDs as a means to curb illegal immigration, suggest that the two parties' enforcement strategy may not be so different after all.

Labour's Enforcement Shift on Border Control

While important differences remain in framing, scope, and values, both parties appear to be converging on immigration policy. Labour, traditionally seen as more pro-immigrant, has implemented measures that suggest a notable shift in approach. The clearest example is the Border Security Command, established in 2024 under Starmer.

The enforcement body pools resources from the police, Border Force and the National Crime Agency. The unit oversaw a 51% increase in immigration-related arrests between July 2024 and June 2025.

The initiative forms part of Labour's wider approach to tackle organised immigration crime and enforce border controls, while operating within legal and human rights frameworks.

Reform UK's Uncompromising Approach

In contrast, Reform UK has proposed more sweeping measures, including the removal of legal protections for certain migrant groups and the expansion of detention powers. While Labour's policies are framed in the language of legality and rights compliance, Reform's proposals have been described by some critics as uncompromising and punitive.

This convergence in enforcement approach is not unprecedented in UK politics. Political historians have drawn parallels with New Labour's pivot in the 1990s when Tony Blair's government adopted a 'tough on crime' stance that resonated with public sentiment at the time. These historical nods remind us that today's shifts might simply be the latest swing in a larger political pendulum.

Shared Toughness on Crime

Beyond immigration, both parties have pushed for a tougher stance on crime. Labour's Take Back Our Streets plan introduced measures such as new Respect Orders aimed at banning persistent offenders and boosting visible policing. Reform UK, meanwhile, has pledged billions for new prisons, harsher sentencing, and an ambitious target of halving crime nationwide.

While Labour frames its approach in the language of community safety and fairness, Reform has branded itself as the 'toughest party on crime'. Both parties have made one thing clear: they're cracking down.

Public Sentiment and Democratic Choice

From policing to immigration, the parties are tapping into the public's growing concerns around safety, each serving up its own version of toughness. For Labour, the strategy is about credibility — showing it can govern firmly, particularly in response to Reform's appeal to disaffected voters. For Reform, the approach reflects its outsider status and commitment to radical change.

As the UK political landscape shifts, this convergence between Labour and Reform raises questions about the genuine political choice available to voters. With the drive for safety and crackdowns taking precedence, more liberal approaches to migration and justice have been pushed to the margins.

Whether this strategy restores public confidence or deepens disillusionment remains to be seen. The outcome will shape not only the fortunes of Labour and Reform UK, but also the trajectory of British democracy itself.