Sir Keir Starmer is facing fresh tensions within the Labour Party over his crackdown on asylum claims, with one backbencher urging the Prime Minister to “think again”.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to unveil a series of proposals in the House of Commons today, inspired by a strict approach taken by Denmark.

The plans include banning three African countries from accessing UK visas if they fail to take back illegal migrants.

Tony Vaughan, MP for Folkestone and Hythe, warned the planned overhaul risks fostering “divisiveness” in communities.

He wrote to X, formerly known as Twitter: “The idea that recognised refugees need to be deported is wrong.

“We absolutely need immigration controls. And where those controls decide to grant asylum, we should welcome and integrate, not create perpetual limbo and alienation.

“The rhetoric around these reforms encourages the same culture of divisiveness that sees racism and abuse growing in our communities.

“The Government is wrong to think that reviews of safety in the person’s country every few years will mean refugees can be returned at scale. That hasn’t happened in Denmark.”

In response to his post, fellow Labour MP John McDonnell commented: “Tony Vaughan is one of the new MPs elected for Labour last year and in his contributions to Commons debates has displayed a considered approach to issues.

“He’s certainly not what the media would call a ‘usual suspect.’ I suspect he is reflecting here what many in the PLP (Parliamentary Labour Party) feel.”

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Minister urges Labour backbenchers to wait for asylum announcement amid backlash on plans

The borders minister has urged Labour backbenchers to wait for the Home Secretary’s asylum announcement later on Monday amid an outcry from some MPs.

Asked about opposition from backbenchers, Alex Norris told Times Radio: “I respect my colleagues and their views.

“I know they want what we want, which is a safe system where people don’t make dangerous journeys. They want a system that is controlled, that has the confidence of the British public.”

Asked about accusations that the policy was racist, he said: “I disagree with that characterisation.

“Of course, they have not seen the package yet and I ask them to look at it closely. I know they will.”