Preet Kaur Gill MP - My Weekly Update: 2nd - 6th November

2 hours ago

13 min read

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This week...

The Government announced major reforms to immigration and settlement

A fair migration system is one that rewards contribution. The right to live in the UK forever will no longer be granted automatically. Instead, it will be earned, under the new Earned Settlement model set out before Parliament today.

Settled status is a significant privilege which allows free and unrestricted access to the labour market, NHS and welfare system. These reforms will mean that these rights come alongside expectations, and that contribution is rewarded.

Those earning more than £50,271 and highly-skilled public service workers in healthcare – like doctors, nurses and teachers – will have a faster route to settlement after five years. The highest earners will be able to settle within three years. Others will settle at a new default of ten years.

Those who have breached immigration rules will only be able to settle after 20 years. Anyone seeking settlement, regardless of when they arrived in the country, will first need to meet four conditions. A clean criminal record. A high standard of English. No debt to the taxpayer. Sustained National Insurance contributions.

Following a consultation, responded to by 200,000 people, the Government has refined its policy to set out a new, fair deal for care workers.

Care workers came to Britain when the sector was reeling after the COVID-19 pandemic, caring for our sick and elderly. However, the care worker route was also abused, sometimes by exploitative companies, and sometimes by those who came to the country without a viable job. The Government will address this fully reality. Those who came to this country, worked in the care sector and met the condition of their visa (earning at least £25,000 a year) will be able to settle after five years. Those who did not will be given a second chance to make the contribution they originally came to make. They will be able to apply for a new visa with a new sponsor, allowing people to break away from rogue employers. The Government will help people as they seek a new sponsor, and they will be given an extended period of time to find a new sponsor.

A similar approach will apply to a series of public service professions in healthcare and education who arrived during the same period. Settlement rules will otherwise continue to apply at the point of application, as they always have in Britain.

The policy also sets out settlement rights for all refugees. It encourages the use of controlled, safe and legal routes, and discourages illegal and unsafe small boat crossings. Refugees on safe and legal routes will be able to settle after five years. Others will settle at 20 years, reduced to 10 years for those who enter work or study to promote integration.

Anyone who arrived by small boat, or another clandestine means of entry, will face an additional 10-year waiting period. This is designed to deter people from making dangerous small boat crossings that reward people smugglers and are leading to tragic deaths in the Channel.

Settled status will never be removed from anyone who already holds it. Family members of British citizens, Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas) and members of the Armed Forces will not have their settlement rights changed, alongside a number of other excluded groups.

The Government is making Child Trust Funds easier to access

Young people lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions will finally have easier access to their savings, ending a long-standing injustice that has created unnecessary barriers for families.

Following years of campaigning and legal difficulties faced by families, new legislation will be introduced by the Government to allow simpler access to Child Trust Funds, replacing the complex and often costly Court of Protection process.

The reforms are expected to allow parents and carers to go directly to Child Trust Fund providers to access savings, solving years of unnecessary anguish for an estimated 63,000 to 126,000 young adults.

Child Trust Funds were introduced in 2005 to provide children a financial boost as they start adulthood, but the scheme made no provision for 18-year-olds who lacked the mental capacity to manage their finances without a straightforward way to access their savings.

Campaigners, disability charities, and the financial services sector will help shape the new process, protecting young people while pulling down barriers that have frustrated families for years.

The Government will work with various stakeholders to explore how the new process is designed, including who can access funds, what evidence is required and what proportionate safeguards are necessary to protect young people who lack mental capacity without creating unnecessary and costly red tape.

The scheme won’t replace the important work of the Court of Protection, which will remain available as an alternative route to protect the financial interests of adults lacking the mental capacity to make financial decisions.

The Government will bring forward an amendment to the Financial Services and Markets Bill to enable the new scheme, with the details to be set out in secondary legislation following Parliamentary approval.

The Government is ending 'wild west' e-bike activity

People across the country will benefit from safer and easier journeys, as Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is set to give local leaders the powers to stop ‘wild west’ e-bike parking and tackle antisocial behaviour.

Shared e-bikes, such as Lime, Voi, Beryl, Dott, Forest and Bolt, are an increasingly popular way to get around, making short journeys quick and convenient. New rules proposed by the government today (5 November 2026) would help make these schemes work better for everyone.

Local leaders will be able to licence schemes in their area, allowing them to enforce minimum standards and better integrate e-bikes into existing transport networks.

The shared cycle scheme consultation, launched this week, and sets out proposed national standards to make journeys safer for everyone and keep pavements clear, particularly for wheelchair users and families with prams.

Measures include:

a parking plan – so they aren’t inconveniencing the public
a plan for antisocial and illegal behaviour – to prevent users riding shared cycles drunk, underage, or on pavements, and setting out clear consequences such as fines for this behaviour
fleet management plans, defined fleet sizes and operating areas – so bikes aren’t overcrowding streets
a fleet maintenance plan – so that cycles are always safe to use
potential insurance requirements for operators so people can claim compensation if they’re hit by someone on a shared cycle

Operators have been calling for more regulation on shared cycle schemes, so they have greater certainty on where and how they run, putting an end to the patchwork of rules for operating in different areas.

This will give local authorities the tools they need to shape their streets to work best for the communities they serve, as part of a wider government move to put more powers in local hands, ensuring decisions are made by those who know local areas best.

The government is also consulting on whether local leaders should have extra powers, including setting fees and requirements for operators to share data to improve enforcement and journey planning. This will mean people can be confident their bike will work when they need it and that bikes will be available in the right places without cluttering up streets.

The Government is extending the right to vote to 16- and 17-year olds

Young people represent the future of our country. Decisions the government makes now will not only affect young people today but will have an enduring impact on their entire lives. As such, it’s only right and fair that younger people be able to vote. Further, by engaging voters early, when they are young, and allowing them to have a say in shaping their future, we will build the foundations for their lifelong participation in our electoral processes.

Votes at 16 is critical to engaging young people in our democracy, empowering them to participate in society and affecting real change both locally and nationally.

While we take action to extend the right to vote to 16- and 17-year-olds, we recognise the importance of taking a particularly careful approach to the handling of data of young people on the electoral register. We will ensure that 16- and 17-year-olds are able to participate in our democracy in the same way as other voters. Alongside this, we will ensure that there are appropriate safeguards in place in line with those for all existing voters, with particular care taken for those pre-registered to vote before they turn 16 where strict controls will be set out in legislation on who can access information from the electoral register and for what purpose. Our approach balances the need for proportionate safeguards within our electoral system, without disadvantaging young voters from being able to participate in it.

Alongside the legislative measures in the Representation of the People Bill to extend the voting age, empowering and equipping young people with the knowledge and skills they need to participate will be a vital part of successfully implementing this change. We are working closely across government and with the devolved governments, Electoral Commission and civil society to develop a package of supporting activity focusing on practical democratic and civic education and engagement.

Following the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review recommendations, the Department for Education has committed to make citizenship compulsory in primary schools and to publish revised programmes of study to ensure that all pupils receive an essential grounding in a range of topics including democracy, government and law. Once these changes are in place young people will benefit from strengthened democratic education before, alongside, and as part of their preparations to exercise their right to vote. This is an opportunity to create truly transformative links between education and democracy.

In Birmingham Edgbaston

I visited West Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association

This week I met with Reservists and Cadets from the West Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (WMRFCA) at Tennal Grange, Harborne, this week.

The Association is mainly made up of volunteers from across the West Midlands and includes high-ranking serving and ex-military Officers, local councillors, and supportive enthusiastic locals with no military experience.

It was a pleasure to hear more about their advocacy and promotion of the Reserves, Cadets and wider military family through engagement with employers, local authorities, youth and the wider community.

You can read more about their work here: About Us - West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association

I made a statement on last week's Budget

This Budget gives families breathing space today, and backs jobs & investment for the future.

In this week's Budget debate, I made the case for life sciences, faster NHS treatment, British manufacturing and skilled jobs with Birmingham's Life Sciences District helping to lead the way.

I marked Remembrance day in Parliament

This week I planted a cross in Parliament's Speaker's Garden of Remembrance on behalf of Birmingham Edgbaston.

An honour to represent our community our community as we remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.

We will remember them.

I met with National Highways

Last week I met with Andrew Jinks, regional director for the Midlands at National Highways.

We are working together to address concerns regarding the removal of trees along the M5 motorway in Quinton, an issue which has affected many of my constituents over recent years.

I attended University of Birmingham's Life Sciences Quarter reception in Parliament

This week I attended a Parliamentary reception hosted by the University of Birmingham showcasing Birmingham’s Health and Life Sciences Quarter this week. The Quarter is producing next-generation diagnostics, therapeutics, and clinical care, delivering growth, jobs and better health outcomes, and cementing the West Midlands as a life sciences powerhouse.

It was great to discuss with colleagues, researchers and businesses leading on this work, including Al Carns MP and Professor Neil Hanley as we continue to highlight and promote Birmingham’s cutting-edge infrastructure.

Media

GB News - Our borders and immigration

Last week I spoke to GB News about the action that this Labour Government is taking on securing our borders and managing immigration.

You can watch my full interview here: Labour MP urges colleagues to BACK Shabana Mahmood's immigration plan - 'Here to serve the country!'

GB News - Supported Exempt Accommodation

Recently I spoke to GB News about the urgent need for action on Supported Exempt Accommodation.

I have campaigned for reform since 2018. Stronger regulation is essential, but Birmingham City Council must use its existing powers to protect vulnerable tenants and tackle rogue providers.

Watch my full interview above.

Birmingham must take action on Exempt accommodation

I have been campaigning for stronger action on exempt accommodation because, when supported housing works well, it changes lives. It gives someone leaving prison the chance to turn a corner, helps a person escape homelessness, and enables those dealing with addiction, poor mental health, or domestic abuse to rebuild their lives.

In 2021, I worked alongside local residents, Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police to secure the closure of Saif Lodge in North Edgbaston after serious concerns were raised about poor living conditions, inadequate support for vulnerable residents, and antisocial behaviour affecting the local community.

Birmingham has some excellent supported housing providers that offer safe accommodation, proper support, and a route towards independence. However, their work is being undermined by a broken system that has allowed unscrupulous operators to exploit vulnerable people and extract vast sums from the taxpayer.

We need to do more to support reputable providers while preventing exploitative operators from taking advantage of vulnerable people. Everyone deserves access to safe, high-quality supported housing that helps them move forward with their lives, and Birmingham cannot afford to wait any longer for action.

You may have missed...

I questioned the Domestic Abuse Commissioner about the Early Release Scheme

Last week on the Home Affairs Committee I questioned Dame Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner, on the Government's early release scheme and how it has impacted victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

I also asked her about her views on the effectiveness of tagging offenders, and whether this process is working as intended.

Watch our full exchange below.

I spoke on the New Statesman's Future of Healthcare Conference panel

Following my time as Minister for Health Innovation and Safety and my experience overseeing policy relating to medicines, medical technology and life sciences, it was a pleasure to offer my perspective on how Government can accelerate the adoption of innovative treatments across the NHS.

My discussion explored how Government, regulators, the NHS, and industry can work together to streamline the journey from clinical research and regulatory approval through to routine adoption.

The conference brought together senior policymakers, NHS leaders, clinicians, researchers and industry representatives to examine the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of healthcare in the UK.

The Government has announced a consultation on Supported Exempt Accommodation

When it works, Supported Exempt Accommodation saves lives and money.

However, as I have seen time and time again across Birmingham Edgbaston, bad actors have been allowed to exploit the system and profit from the neglect of people who are suffering.

I welcome the Government's consultation on new regulation, and encourage all stakeholders - including residents - to have their say by completing the survey below.

Feed into the consultation here: Supported housing licensing regime: consultation on draft regulations - GOV.UK

Birmingham Airport announces a major public consultation on its future – Edgbaston residents can have their say

Birmingham Airport has announced its ambition to become the Midlands’ gateway to the world. It is consulting on a draft Master Plan, which sets out a long-term vision for how the Airport could grow and evolve over the period to 2041.

The Airport is consulting from 8 October 2026 to 4 December 2026. Our consultation closes on 4 December 2026.

A local drop-in consultation event took place at:

· St Mary’s Parish Centre, Harborne, B17 0DN, on Wednesday 28 October 11am–3pm

However, you can still get involved through the following methods by 4 December 2026:

· Online – Share your thoughts in a feedback form on our website: www.birminghamairport.co.uk/masterplan/

· Email – Send your feedback to: masterplan@birminghamairport.co.uk

· Post – MASTER PLAN 2026-2041, Birmingham Airport, Birmingham, B26 3QJ

· Drop-in events – Come along to learn more and speak with the project team Find out more: www.birminghamairport.co.uk/masterplan/

Have your say on Pride in Place funding for Woodgate and Bartley Green

Calling on Woodgate and Bartley Green residents - I want to hear how you think the £20 million Pride in Place investment should be spent.

After years of campaigning I've secured £20 million for Woodgate and Bartley Green as part of the Pride in Place programme.

Woodgate and Bartley Green have long faced challenges with limited opportunities for young people, and closure of community facilities. This investment aims to reverse years of underfunding, and rebuilding pride in local neighbourhoods.

I am asking residents to share their thoughts on how the money should be used. It could be for more youth services, a community hub, improved outdoor spaces or more support for skills and employment. All ideas are welcome and will inform the plans for how the funding will be spent with the goal to benefit as many residents as possible.

Please complete the survey here.

Community Wins

In Harborne:

I helped secure a compulsory purchase order (CPO) on a vacant property in Birmingham responsible for crime and antisocial behaviour.

In North Edgbaston:

I helped secure the replacement of new windows in Ladywood Leisure Centre following recent damage.

If you have any issues you would like to raise with me, please get in touch.

Phone: 0121 392 8426

Email: preet.gill.mp@parliament.uk

Mobile Household Waste Centre dates and locations

Information on what you can bring to the vehicle

Birmingham City Council arranges Mobile Household Waste Centres across the city.

Bartley Green
Date	Location	Time
24 November 2026	Woodgate Valley Park car park, Clapgate Lane, B32 3DS	7:30am to 12:30pm
8 December 2026	Woodgate Valley Park car park, Clapgate Lane, B32 3DS	7:30am to 12:30pm

North Edgbaston
Date	Location	Time
14 November 2026	George Dixon Academy car park, Stanmore Road, B16 9SU	8:00am to midday
19 December 2026	George Dixon Academy car park, Stanmore Road, B16 9SU	8:00am to midday

To find the next pick-ups near you, please visit: Mobile Household Waste Centre dates and locations

Police drop-in sessions across all wards

West Midlands Police hold regular drop-ins and PACT meetings providing residents with the opportunity to speak directly with officers about concerns relating to crime in the community. Please see below a list of the drop-in sessions coming up in my constituency.

PCSO walkabout

4:00PM - 6:00PM, Sat 07 November 2026

Hagley Road, Edgbaston

Drop in Surgery

5:00PM - 6:00PM, Tue 10 November 2026

Quinton Library, Ridgacre Road, Birmingham, B32 2TW

Cuppa with a Coppa

10:30AM - 11:30AM, Wed 11 November 2026

St Francis Centre, Glen Side, Bartley Green, Birmingham

Find more information here: Birmingham | West Midlands Police

To receive regular updates about the police in your area, sign up for WM Now updates here.

Here’s some things from last week you may have missed:

🚗New Private Parking Code of Practice
🚧£220m for potholes
🛠️Industrial Strategy Jobs Plan

Read last week's update here: Preet Kaur Gill MP - My Weekly Update: 19-23rd October

As always, if you have an issue you'd like to discuss, please contact my office at 0121 392 8426 or preet.gill.mp@parliament.uk, or through my website.

With warm regards,

Preet Kaur Gill MP

Member of Parliament for Birmingham Edgbaston, covering Bartley Green, Edgbaston, Harborne, North Edgbaston and Quinton

Preet Kaur Gill for
Birmingham Edgbaston

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