Woolas backed over new laws

Immigration Minister Phil Woolas has canvassed opinion in the town over new proposals to toughen up the immigration system - claiming it was widely welcomed.

Under proposals in a new Citizenship Bill, immigrants will have to wait up to 10 years before they can claim benefits and council housing in the toughest shake-up to date.

The Milnrow & Newhey MP claimed support from across communities after he sought the opinion of residents.

He said: “My survey confirmed my view that the most strongly opposed to abuse are the law-abiding immigrants themselves.”

And he was backed by the Prime Minister’s official spokesman, who said that Gordon Brown had full confidence in Mr Woolas’s comments and that he was outlining Government policy.

He said: “The Prime Minister, for some time now, has been making his view clear, which is that we welcome immigration to this country. Migrants can make a significant contribution, but it is also important that they are properly integrated into British society.”

Mr Woolas said newcomers to the UK will have to prove they are here to work.

He said: “If you are a citizen you have earned the right to benefits. People must show they are here to work.

“It is a common misunderstanding that initial immigrants already do get benefits. Those with indefinite leave to remain do.

“The changes in the Citizenship Bill will mean new immigrants will have to wait up to 10 years to earn their citizenship before obviously then being entitled to benefits. It is a tough change but fair.”

Mr Woolas added: “It has been too easy for illegal immigrants to stay in this country. We have not counted them in and out.”

The plans are to be included in the new Borders, Immigration and Citizenship Bill, published in January.