The report published by the UK-based campaign group Another Europe Is Possible, Time for change: the evidence-based policies that can actually fix the immigration system, has been billed as a sensible and pragmatic alternative to the Labour Government’s current immigration policy proposals.
Gardner argues that the Labour government has become mired in a no-win situation. Its approach to immigration has been disappointing. It is failing both migrants and the needs of British communities. The alternative approach outlined in the report starts from the recognition that the UK needs immigration to sustain growth and fund public services in an ageing society.
Gardner says, “The government is in a bind of their own making on immigration. Their latest draconian proposals will drive away progressive voters and legitimise the far right. It doesn’t have to be this way. An evidence-based approach to immigration is also the humane one. It’s good for the economy, good for integration, and reflects our decency, too. Labour still can turn this around to a win-win both politically and morally, by pursuing the sensible changes outlined in this report.”
People will continue to seek safety and opportunity in the UK, which requires safe and responsible management. Protecting migrants’ rights strengthens community wellbeing and labour standards, creating a more fair and equal society for everyone. In the Time for change report, Gardner proposes a 9-point plan across three key policy areas: the asylum system, labour and employment rights, and community integration.
Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central, says:
“This report lays out a number of pragmatic policies that can get us back on the front foot in this toxic debate on immigration. Along with a large majority of the public, I’ve long backed giving asylum seekers the right to work to support their integration into our communities. The policy of enforced welfare, requiring them to live on handouts rather than take up jobs and pay their own way undermines community cohesion and increases the costs to the taxpayer. A change in this area is long overdue. It is the kind of policy that reflects Labour values and can rebuild public confidence in a well managed immigration system.”
Nadia Whittome, the Labour MP for Nottingham East, says:
“This report outlines an approach to immigration that the Labour Party and the public could be proud of. One that treats people with the dignity and humanity they deserve and reverses the cowardice that has us chasing unworkable, performative cruel policies in an attempt to satisfy a hateful anti-migrant narrative.”
“Our Labour government must use its power to build a safer and more equal society. That means embracing the evidence that safe routes save lives and could end irregular boat crossings. It means giving all migrant workers a fair and level playing field to work and contribute to our society. Most of all, we must send a strong message that those who build their lives here are not strangers. They belong here, and we can build stronger, more resilient communities only by breaking down barriers to full inclusion.”
Report Summary
This short form note offers a summary of the policy report, Time For Change: The evidence-based policies that can actually fix the immigration system, published by Another Europe Is Possible and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung in December 2025.
Full report available for download below.
Full Report
5th December 2025