THE UK’s proposed points-based immigration system ignores the needs of Scotland and offers few practical measures to address “acute depopulation”, according to Scotland’s Migration Minister.
Ben Macpherson’s comments came after the UK Government Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) said that having skill and salary thresholds for migrants compared to freedom of movement is “likely” to curb future growth in the UK economy and see the population decline.
The report also said that Brexit may only lead to small improvements in standards of living and that the proposed new immigration system could have “zero effect” on providing more British jobs for British workers.
Ending free movement, meanwhile, would see “slightly reduced pressures” on hospitals, schools and social housing and “slightly increased pressure” on social care, according to the findings.
READ MORE: Scots lawyer slams Boris Johnson's points-based immigration plan
The MAC – which provides independent, evidence-based advice to the Government – made a string of recommendations after reviewing plans for an Australian-style points-based immigration system set to be introduced after Brexit.
“The committee recommendations offer little in the way of practical measures to help Scotland address acute issues of depopulation and skills gaps,” said Macpherson.
“Worryingly, it accepts the proposed changes will cut immigration, reducing the size of the UK population and total GDP.
“There is a clear need for a fundamentally different approach to migration policy to reflect Scotland’s distinct demographic and geographical needs.
READ MORE: Home Office swiftly dismisses Nicola Sturgeon’s migration proposals
“Devolving immigration powers by introducing a Scottish visa would allow Scotland to attract and retain people with the skills and attributes we need for our communities and economy to flourish.”
On Monday, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon sent the UK Government detailed proposals on a different Scottish immigration system.
The 94-page document, titled Migration – Helping Scotland Prosper, was rejected by the Home Office within minutes of it being received.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel