# UK migration policy and anti-migrant protest tensions > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uk-migration-policy-and-anti-migrant-protest-tensions > Updated: 2026-09-10T16:30:40.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. The UK government is navigating internal and external pressures regarding migration policy and public order. Former Home Secretary Alan Johnson has advocated for the progression of the Immigration and Asylum Bill, despite opposition from nearly 80 Labour backbenchers. The proposed reforms include increasing the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain from five to ten years and extending the timeline for permanent refugee status to 20 years. Concurrently, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has directed police to utilize all available powers to suppress far-right, anti-migrant protests following instances of disorder in Dover and Portsmouth. Mahmood described these demonstrations as having “obvious malign intent” and creating a “fear factor” for local residents. In response to tactics used by groups like the Patriot Platform, discussions have emerged regarding the use of powers to ban face coverings to prevent intimidation and disruption. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-10: Shabana Mahmood urges police to curb far-right anti-migrant protests Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has urged UK police to use all necessary powers, including potential face-covering bans, to combat far-right anti-migrant protests following recent disorder. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/shabana-mahmood-urges-police-to-curb-far-right-anti-migrant-protests ### 2026-08-23: Alan Johnson urges Shabana Mahmood to proceed with migration reforms Former Home Secretary Alan Johnson has urged Shabana Mahmood to press ahead with migration reforms despite Labour backbench opposition, warning that retreating could benefit political rivals. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alan-johnson-urges-shabana-mahmood-to-proceed-with-migration-reforms --- Cite as: UK migration policy and anti-migrant protest tensions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uk-migration-policy-and-anti-migrant-protest-tensions