Minister says immigrants can expect 'harsh treatment' when they enter UK

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Liam Byrne said foreigners would face treatment that some could view as harsh.

"The rules are unambiguous: speak the language; obey the law; and make sure you're paying your taxes like the rest of us," said the Home Office Minister.

"It is a very British tough-minded fairness.

"There is a sense in the public mind that the sooner newcomers start on the type of journey we have in mind, the better."

Migrant workers coming to Britain could face tougher immigration controls

Only two years ago Labour said the Tories were racist for making immigration an election issue.

However, Mr Byrne's speech is proof that Ministers have realised that they ignore public concern at their peril.

Minister Liam Byrne has called for tougher immmigration controls

Mr Byrne, addressing border and immigration guards, said the Government's own research had found two thirds of the public want tougher border controls.

"Britain is not anti-foreigner," he added.

"Britain is a country that is comfortable with diversity and a nation that enjoys difference. But we want change. The public wants stronger borders.

"The public wants us to hold newcomers to account when they break the rules.

"We have got the message. The entirety of this agenda can sound harsh . . . but it is the precondition for the preservation of the greatest British tradition of tolerance."

Mr Byrne unveiled a tenpoint plan to sort out the immigration system.

Changes include forcing all foreigners who enter the UK on a visa to first hand over their fingerprints and a facial scan.

It will allow the Government to weed out any criminals or asylum cheats before their entry.

Mr Byrne also promised more detention centres to hold illegal immigrants awaiting deportation and the introduction of ID cards for foreign nationals.