TORIES BATTERED IN IMMIGRATION VOTE

TORY MSPs got a hammering from their colleagues in other parties yesterday in a row over immigration powers.

The party tried to argue against giving Holyrood control over borders, despite recognising concerns that Scotland will lose working-age EU citizens after Brexit.

Calls for a separate migration system were backed by a majority – with only the Tories against the move.

After the Holyrood vote, SNP MSP Mairi Gougeon said: “Theresa May and her hard-Brexiteer colleagues are obsessed with closing the door to immigrants, no matter the damage. The UK Government’s reckless plans risk damage to our public services and our economy.

“We need an immigration system that reflects Scotland’s unique circumstances.

“The Scottish Parliament has spoken – and the UK Government must deliver.”

During the debate, Tory MSP Jackson Carlaw admitted Scotland needs “a significant increase” in the working age population but rejected calls for a separate system.