Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jayne Kirkham and Seema Malhotra

Monday 7th July 2025 Commons Chamber

[Jayne Kirkham (Truro and Falmouth) (Lab/Co-op)]

4. What discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the proposed increase to the standard qualifying period for settlement on NHS staffing levels.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Seema Malhotra)]

This Government recognise and value the contribution that NHS staff make to our country. That is why, under the settlement proposals in the immigration White Paper, we have made it clear that individuals will be able to reduce the standard 10-year period based on their contributions to the UK’s economy and society. We will consult on detailed proposals later this year. These are important changes: we recognise how important this matter is, and we will listen to what people tell us in that consultation. An impact assessment will be developed alongside any finalised policy.

[Jayne Kirkham]

I have been contacted by constituents working in health and social care in Truro and Falmouth who are concerned about the proposed changes to the standard qualifying period. Dr Mohamed Abdelazim works as a doctor at the Royal Cornwall hospitals NHS trust and has not quite completed the five-year eligibility period. He says the policy will directly and severely impact him and hundreds of other frontline workers and that 10 years is a very long time to live on a visa without the security that citizenship would provide. Will the proposed increase in the eligibility period to 10 years impact my constituents retrospectively, and might they be able to reduce that period based on the contributions that the Minister mentioned?

[Seema Malhotra]

I understand the concerns raised by my hon. Friend’s constituents about the impact of the proposals. They are important changes, which is why we will consult on the proposals and lay out more details later in the year, including on any transitional arrangements. We understand the importance of clarity and fairness for those already contributing to public services, and we will provide further details in due course.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jayne Kirkham and Seema Malhotra

Monday 2nd June 2025 Commons Chamber

[Jayne Kirkham (Truro and Falmouth) (Lab/Co-op)]

Last year, Dr Mohammed Mohsen was offered a position in the acute medicine department at Royal Cornwall hospital in my constituency. He was due to start that role last year, but due to the ongoing conflict and travel restrictions in Gaza, he has been unable to travel to the UK. Would the Minister meet me to consider his case, as he requires urgent assistance?

[Seema Malhotra]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this matter, and I am very happy to meet her. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is working to ensure that those who need to leave Gaza, and are able and eligible to do so, are supported in that. I am very happy to look at this matter with my hon. Friend.