GIVE US CONTROL OF IMMIGRATION
Call on Tories to let Scotland have own post-Brexit policy
THE Tories have been urged to allow Scotland to have its own post-Brexit immigration policy.
It comes after a report for Holyrood’s Europe committee underlined concerns that an end to EU freedom of movement will hurt the economy.
Recommendations include handing control of immigration to the Scottish Parliament – a proposal rejected by Theresa May’s Government.
Committee convener Joan McAlpine said: “The prospect of a hard Brexit is a real concern for key sectors of the Scottish economy, such as agriculture and hospitality, that are heavily reliant on EU migrant labour. This report shows there are sensible and straightforward ways for us to secure a bespoke system of immigration that addresses the specific needs of Scotland.”
The report points to examples in countries such as Canada, where Quebec has its own immigration system.
It claims fears that foreign workers would use Scotland as a backdoor to England have been overstated.
Proposals to stop this include that immigrants’ visas would be withdrawn if they move outside Scotland.
Author Dr Eve Hepburn said: “The report reveals there are 20 ways in which Scotland could have a bit – or a lot – more influence over immigration, if it adopted lessons from abroad.
“For most of these options, no legislative change is required. Instead, differentiation could be introduced within current devolved structures.”
A Tory spokesman said: “These findings suggest that there are many things that the Scottish Government could be doing right now to attract people to Scotland.
“It is important that the SNP Government work constructively with the UK Government to ensure we secure a Brexit deal that works for all industries in all parts of the country.”