Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has publicly called on Labour leader Keir Starmer to dismiss Immigration Minister Mike Tapp, accusing him of breaching collective responsibility by publicly promoting policy changes without her consent. Mahmood’s move marks an unusual break from standard ministerial protocol, where such disputes are typically handled privately within government channels.

The dispute centers on Tapp’s recent article advocating for a reduction in the residency requirement for care workers to obtain permanent settlement from ten to five years—a policy reportedly favored by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Sources suggest Tapp’s comments were perceived as an attempt to position himself favorably with Burnham’s administration ahead of potential political shifts.

Mahmood criticized Tapp for "freelancing on policy" and violating the ministerial code by advancing proposals without her knowledge or agreement as Home Secretary. In response, she has restricted his access to departmental documents and meetings pending further review. However, as ministerial appointments fall under the prime minister’s authority, Mahmood cannot unilaterally remove Tapp from his post.

Tapp, currently attending a wedding in San Francisco, defended his stance via social media, asserting that the exclusion of social care workers from current immigration settlement rules originated with him. He emphasized his refusal to be pressured to abandon his views ahead of ongoing policy discussions.

Representatives for Mahmood countered by citing internal Home Office deliberations, indicating that the care worker policy had been formulated based on advice circulated among a limited group of civil servants under an internal initiative known as Operation Pylon. This suggests the policy may not have been solely Tapp’s own proposal.

Tapp has gained a reputation for outspoken commentary, having recently published an article supporting the principle that a change in prime minister should trigger a general election—a position aligned with Starmer’s. His assertive approach to public discussion of policy sets him apart among junior ministers.

This episode has drawn comparisons to the actions of fellow 2024 intake Labour MP Al Carns, who resigned as a defence minister two weeks ago and is reportedly seeking to challenge Burnham’s leadership despite limited backing.

Observers note that Mahmood’s firm response to Tapp’s conduct could be interpreted in contrasting ways: either as a sign of potential internal friction within Labour’s ranks or as evidence of her resolve to maintain ministerial discipline and control over policy messaging ahead of forthcoming political battles. Starmer has yet to act on Mahmood’s call to remove Tapp.