How the main parties compare on immigration rhetoric

Labour has been accused of pandering to Ukip by proposing new curbs on benefits for EU migrants, despite the party itself warning the Tories had become locked in an "arms race" on immigration.

The Labour proposals, unveiled yesterday by shadow work and pensions secretary Rachel Reeves, could not be implemented immediately in the event of Labour winning power next year, however, and would have to have the backing of the 27 EU member states.

Here's what you need to know:

Current system

EU migrants must wait three months before they can claim Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA). If they pass a "habitual residence test," they can claim JSA, child benefit and child tax credit for six months.

Labour proposals

Try to persuade the EU to extend the waiting period from three months to two years and try to limit tax credits to EU migrants.

Conservative proposals

David Cameron has vowed to dilute the EU's "free movement" rule but may have to settle for temporary restrictions. The Tories are also targeting tax credits.

What happens elsewhere?

Rules tend to vary, but to claim benefits in another country, a migrant must pass a "habitual residence test."

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