World Immigration News

Starmer says he regrets using 'island of strangers' phrase

Release Date: 2025-06-28
Media: BBC
Summary: UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed regret over his May speech warning the UK risked becoming "an island of strangers," a phrase critics linked to Enoch Powell's divisive 1968 immigration speech. While Starmer and Downing Street denied any intent to echo Powell, some of his own supporters condemned the apology as weak and disloyal to his aides. Starmer revealed he made the speech shortly after an alleged arson attack on his family home and admitted he should have reviewed it more carefully. Critics from opposition parties and some Labour MPs warned that the rhetoric could fuel division and racial abuse. The government continues to defend the overall immigration policy while seeking a more careful tone in future discussions.
Tags: United Kingdom

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