top of page

ADAMSON: SCOTLAND NEEDS POWERS ON MIGRATION

clareadamsonmsp

SNP MSP Clare Adamson has joined calls for the Scottish Parliament to have the powers to build an immigration system to suit Scotland’s needs.

 

Scotland has unique challenges such as population decline and low levels of unemployment – meaning that more working age people are needed to ensure growth in our economy.

 

Ms Adamson, MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw, is backing proposals for a Scottish Graduate Visa – a dedicated visa for international graduates from Scottish universities or colleges who want to stay in Scotland after their studies.

 

First Minister John Swinney published a paper setting out proposed initial steps on a tailored migration policy for Scotland, including proposals for a Scottish post-study visa.

 

The move has been backed by key organisations such as the National Union of Students Scotland, Universities Scotland, and Chambers of Commerce across the country.  But it would require cooperation from the UK Government as immigration is a reserved issue.

 

Ms Adamson said:

 

“My Motherwell and Wishaw constituency is vulnerable to the challenges facing Scotland. 

 

“In the coming years, population decline will cause unique problems for Scotland.  We need inward migration to raise tax revenue, support business and employment, and bolster public services alongside the rich cultural benefits that migration brings.

 

“I want to see a return to post-graduate visas, which were dismantled by the Tories.  This would bring huge economic and societal benefits.

 

“Next week, I will lead a debate on the catastrophic damage that Brexit has caused for Scotland – despite our overwhelming vote to stay in the EU.

 

“The figures are frightening:  import costs have risen causing prices to rise; goods exports from the UK dropped by £27bn in 2022 alone; trade intensity of the UK economy will reduce by 15% in the long term. 

 

“Scotland has lost an estimated £2.3 billion every year in public revenue because of Brexit.   

 

“And we are tied to a migration system dictated by the UK Government – even where our needs are different.

 

“A one-size-fits-all approach to migration is harmful for Scotland and the UK Government is hostile to EU membership.

 

“We will feel that harm for years to come.  Future generations in my area have lost out on incredible opportunities to work, study, and live in 27 EU nations.

 

“We need a migration system that works for Scotland and supports my community in Motherwell and Wishaw.”

  

First Minister outlines plans to help grow Scotland’s economy

 

Brexit Harm to Scotland, Five Years Since the UK Left the EU

Komentarze


Komentowanie zostało wyłączone.
Parliament Logo Purple Background.png
The costs of this website have been met out of parliamentary resource

Constituency Office

Dalziel Building

7 Scott Street

Motherwell

ML1 1PN

Phone: 01698 337540

Parliament Office

 

The Scottish Parliament
Edinburgh
EH99 1SP

Phone: 0131 358 6376

  • Facebook
  • X
  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • bluesky
  • Linkedin
bottom of page