The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Government warns over points-based migration
Response to plan for Australianstyle system in UK
The Scottish Government has warned against the introduction of a so-called Australian-style immigration system, as the Home Office looks to fast-track visas for scientists after Brexit.
Migration minister Ben Macpherson was responding to the UK Government’s Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which is considering the switch to a points-based system based on one utilised Down Under.
Home Secretary Priti Patel unveiled plans for a fast-track visa process to allow scientists and academics quick access to the UK following the country’s exit from the EU, concerns which had been raised by universities across the country including Dundee, Abertay and St Andrews.
The Scottish Government is calling for devolution of immigration powers to Holyrood, which would allow them to construct a “tailor made” migration programme for Scotland.
Recent figures showed the Scottish economy relied on migration to counter the country’s falling birthrate.
Mr Macpherson said: “The evidence clearly illustrates Scotland’s demographic challenges where the age structure of our population is more imbalanced than in the rest of the UK.
“The number of people in Scotland who are living longer is growing, which is of course a good thing, but we also need to grow our working age population and that requires inward migration.
“If left unchecked, our demographic challenges will have a serious impact on communities and will increase the risk of skills gaps and labour shortages in key sectors. The impact of Brexit will only exacerbate these challenges as it will be harder for people in the EU to come and work in Scotland.
“Demographic pressures require a different policy response in Scotland to ensure we have an immigration system that enables our economy and our public services to recruit the individuals they need, allows our communities to prosper and is fair and transparent to individuals and employers.
“Any move by the UK Government to create an Australian-style points-based immigration system must include a commitment to a tailored approach to migration policy for Scotland.”
The number of fast-track visas allowing scientists from abroad to undergo research at UK universities will double from 62 to more than 120, the Home Office has confirmed.