JACKSON Carlaw has been warned he faces failing his first test as Scottish Tory leader as his party’s politicians fail to challenge Boris Johnson’s “close-minded” immigrations plans.
The UK Government has revealed its intention to stop providing visas to low-skilled migrant workers, instead outlining plans for a new points-based system.
A minimum salary threshold of £30,000 is to be set, which can be lowered to £25,600 for those coming to the UK with a job offer.
As recently as June, Scottish Tory MSPs and MPs called on Westminster to implement a “flexible” immigration system amid concerns a £30,000 threshold is well above the average wage in Scotland.
Then-Scottish Tory MP Kirstene Hair said: “The next Prime Minister must be aware of the difficulties that a one-size fits all approach could cause for Scotland’s economy.
“It is clear that there are serious concerns about the £30,000 salary threshold for skilled workers in particular.
“That must be re-visited and other measures explored to ensure that the system continues to work for all parts of the UK.”
However, no-one from Jackson Carlaw’s has so far criticised the UK Government plan.
READ MORE: 'An insult to Scotland': Reaction to new Westminster immigration policy
A cross-party report by Holyrood’s Finance Committee previously warned that demographic changes could pose risks to Scottish public spending, and our ability to fund the NHS.
SNP MSP Tom Arthur urged Scottish Tories to speak out.
“Despite the clear evidence, the Tories seem utterly determined to back Boris Johnson’s closed-minded plans, which will be immeasurably damaging to Scotland,” he said.
“It is absolutely shameful that not a single Scottish Tory MSP or MP can bring themselves to speak out against this out-of-touch approach.
“This is Jackson Carlaw’s first test as leader of the Scottish Tories, and he’s in real danger of failing it.”
READ MORE: The Nine can't find ANY Tories willing to discuss immigration plan
Scotland Office minster Douglas Ross claimed the proposals would be beneficial for Scotland.
The Moray MP said: "The new system announced today will make sure our economy attracts and retains the best talent from around the world, welcoming people to Scotland and the whole UK based on how they can help grow our country."
The reduced salary requirement is "again good news for Scotland", Ross added.
Scottish tourism, health, farming, business and local council chiefs have condemned the Downing Street immigration reforms, warning of cataclysmic consequences.
Nicola Sturgeon and Holyrood Migration Minister Ben Macpherson have also rubbished the proposals.
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon: Tory immigration plans 'devastating' for Scotland
The First Minister has already seen proposals for a Scottish visa, to help Scotland cope with demographic change, rejected outright by Johnson’s government.
Arthur added: “It’s now absolutely vital that the Scottish Tories back the SNP’s plans for a tailored migration system which works for Scotland.”
Responding to the Tory immigration plans, National Farmers Union of Scotland chief executive Scott Walker said: “The Government’s proposed new immigration system will not deliver the skilled staff needed for the farming, food and drink industries.
“We need a system that recognises the different regional requirements across the UK. Scotland-specific work permits would do that.”
Cosla president Alison Evison added: “Cosla argued for devolved migration to respond to Scotland’s demographics and be welcoming to those who wish to settle here to take up opportunities to work across many local services & in industries like food/drink & tourism. We need that even more.”
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