No-deal will put ‘wrecking ball’ through universities: Minister

Major warning that science and research could be casualties of the UK crashing out of EU

A no-deal Brexit could drive a “wrecking ball” though science and research in Scotland’s universities, it has been warned.

Scottish Government Higher Education Minister Richard Lochhead also warned uncertainty over the UK’s departure from the EU may mean Scotland is no longer able to provide free tuition to European students after 2021.

He visited Dundee University yesterday to meet international students and staff ahead of a Scottish Parliament debate on the UK’s proposed post-Brexit immigration policy.

He said one of his key concerns is the UK’s proposed three-year European leave to remain policy, as most Scottish degrees take at least four years to complete.

This, he said, could deter students from choosing to study in Scotland – which could impact funding – while restrictive immigration policies could also limit the numbers of international staff able to teach in Scotland’s universities.

Mr Lochhead, the MSP for Moray, said: “Brexit, of course, dominates the current political agenda, and there are genuine fears in Scotland how any future arrangements under a no-deal Brexit would affect people coming here to work and study.

“Scotland urgently needs a migration policy tailored to our distinct needs.

“The UK Government’s proposals for a three-year European temporary leave to remain status post-EU exit is a clear example of UK immigration policy failing to reflect Scotland’s needs.

“Any potential loss of access to Freedom of Movement would be like a wrecking ball to our science and research sector.

“Anything that puts up barriers to this flow of people and ideas will make Scotland a far less attractive place for globally mobile researchers, students and staff.”

Mr Lochhead said the Scottish Government may not be able pay tuition fees for European students after 2020-21.

During a debate in the Scottish Parliament later the same day, he warned vital research funding could also be cut.

Universities Scotland, which represents the higher education sector, is also urging the UK Government to rethink its immigration proposals.

A Home Office spokesman said students will be allowed to stay in the UK for longer than three years so long as they apply for an extension before that time is up.

He said: “Those at undergraduate level and above should apply under the student route before the expiry of their European Temporary Leave to Remain (TLR). EU students will be able to apply for the European TLR scheme before the end of 2020 – this will be a simple, free online application.”

Scotland urgently needs a migration policy tailored to our distinct needs. RICHARD LOCHHEAD

Picture: Kim Cessford.