Councils’ fears over massive migrant inf lux

SCOTLAND’S councils do not have enough resources to cope with an influx of migrants, a report shows.

Some local authority chiefs also fear the impact on ‘community cohesion and long-term integration’ if more foreigners move here, the study by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) centre for population change found.

However, most view i ncreased immigration as a method of ‘stabilising demographic challenges’, such as the growing number of pensioners.

An independent Scotland would have to open its borders to tens of thousands of migrants or face a population crisis in less than 20 years, according to official figures.

Forecasts f rom the Office f or National Statistics (ONS) show the number of deaths north of the Bor-

‘Insufficient resources’

der will exceed the number of births by 2032, ending any ‘natural growth’ of the population. In Wales, the same will happen in 2034, while in Northern Ireland the pivotal date is 2056.

However, births will continue to outstrip deaths in England well into the second half of the century and possibly beyond. As part of the UK, the demographic challenges can therefore be ‘ironed out’.

The ONS predicts that net migration – the difference between the number arriving and leaving Scotland – will increase by 15,500 a year.

But Alex Salmond believes he could attract 24,000 extra migrants each year, including workers from what is left of the UK, which would be a foreign country under the SNP’s plans.

The ESRC researchers carried out 16 in- depth interviews with senior council officials. Among the key conclusions, ‘insufficient resources were cited by all local authorities as a constraint on their capacity to welcome migrants to their communities’.

Helen Packwood of St Andrews University said: ‘The ability of local authorities to manage migration is of significance because it will be a key determinant of whether Scotland can attract and retain the immigrants it needs to grow its population and economy.

‘This study highlights the challenge of devising national immigration policy without adequate dialogue with local policy and decision-makers.’

Miss Packwood said that although the councils in the study felt more confident and better equipped to deal with an increase in immigrants than previously, they were conscious of balancing the needs of existing communities with the opportunities created by new arrivals.

She added: ‘Enhancing communication within tiers of government could ensure that migration policy is more responsive, reflective and better informed. This may also ensure greater consistency of approaches, ensuring all local authorities exceed their statutory obligations in relation to immigration.’

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘We greatly value the contribution that migrants and new Scots are bringing to Scotland.

‘We will continue to ensure our local authorities receive adequate and fair funding. Between 2007-08 and 2012-13, local government’s budget increased by 8.9 per cent, demonstrating our determination to provide strong financial settlements during challenging financial times.’