Dame Emily with the Home Office letter

ISLINGTON South and Finsbury MP Dame Emily Thornberry is “raging” at the Home Office after they dismissed her concerns over new immigration rules, which may see some waiting a decade to earn security in the UK.

Dame Emily has been vocal in her opposition to the home secretary’s “unfair” changes to Indefinite Leave to Remain.

The new rules could see refugees wait 20 years for settled status if they rely on benefits, and the MP has argued this will drive families into poverty by forcing parents to choose between destitution and jeopardising their right to be in the UK.

In response to her letter, immigration minister Mike Tapp defended the “earned settlement” model, saying the government is “committed to developing a fair and transparent system that reflects both the needs of the UK and the contributions of those who wish to build their lives here”.

Dame Emily, however, said she is “not satisfied” with their response.

“I have written back again and have demanded a meeting,” she added.