Tory civil war looming over immigration as Prime Minister is slammed over his lack of facts

Dithering David Cameron was slammed today for offering assurances over immigration – without seeing any official stats.

The Prime Minister claimed in a radio interview that the number of workers coming here from Bulgaria and Romania had been “reasonable” since restrictions were lifted.

But later, in a Q&A session at a business conference in Westminster, he was forced to admit that his claim was not based on any official statistics.

The PM explained: “There aren’t any official statistics – I haven’t been looking at any unofficial statistics.

“But just from what I read and see and hear, as you have, I think that these numbers look reasonable.”

Ian Austin, a member of the Home Affairs select committee, said Mr Cameron should not shoot from the hip on such a sensitive issue.

he Labour MP said: “It is not good enough for the PM to make it up as he goes along. We need an immigration policy based on facts, not gut feeling.”

Mr Cameron also faces fury from fellow Tories over an attempt to see off a rebellion on immigration.

As many as 70 backbenchers have threatened to vote to bring back the restrictions on Romanian and Bulgarian migrants that were lifted on New Year’s Day. But the Government insists it would break EU law to do so.

It has tabled 50 amendments to the Immigration Bill, which will only have four hours of debate on Thursday – not enough time for any rebel motion.

The revolt ringleader, Tory Nigel Mills, warned that the Coalition will break its pledge to bring down net migration to tens of thousands unless the restrictions are brought back in.

Mr Mills said: “We said we wanted to get net migration to the tens of thousands. It was at 180,000 last year. That is our party’s policy and it’s one we should be sticking to.”

Fellow rebel Tory John Baron also criticised Mr Cameron’s attempt to duck a confrontation.

He said: “Putting off the inevitable is not doing us any good at all.”

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It's a trait of the RW to spout a load of old guff, without introducing the facts!

Some will have hissyfits and hide under the bed WITH KNIVES.

...Tory civil war!

Oh goody!!!!!!!!!

    

Imagine these foreigners might make it difficult for you to get a job!!!

I wouldn't get too excited it's Labours civil war that will be more spectacular.

Millibands hard left versus New Labour. Hey Phil need an update can I help with your C.V.?