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Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP wants ‘renewed focus on migration policy’





Maree Todd says the UK government is being 'dragged in an anti-growth direction' over migration and EU membership.
Maree Todd says the UK government is being 'dragged in an anti-growth direction' over migration and EU membership.

Maree Todd is calling for “a renewed focus on a migration policy that works for Scotland”.

She wants the Scottish Parliament to have the necessary powers to tailor an immigration system to suit the country’s needs.

The SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross insists there is a need for people to come to the Highlands to bolster the working-age population.

Ms Todd is concerned that the UK government is being “dragged in an anti-growth direction” on migration and European Union membership. This, she believes, is holding back the economic potential of the Highlands.

The Scottish Government has published a paper setting out initial steps on a tailored migration policy, including a route for international graduates from Scottish universities and colleges to stay in the country through a Scottish Graduate Visa.

Ms Todd pointed out that the move had been backed by organisations such as the National Union of Students Scotland and Universities Scotland as well as chambers of commerce.

“Two of the greatest challenges facing the Highland economy in the coming years are our specific population challenges and the damage being inflicted by Brexit,” she said.

“On these two issues, the UK government is being dragged in an anti-growth direction by a Westminster system which is determined to limit migration and is hostile to EU membership.

“This position does not represent the economic interests of the Highlands. We need a renewed focus on a migration policy that works for Scotland.

“We need people to come to the Highlands to live and work to bolster our working-age population. This is essential for the sustainability of our rural communities, tax revenues, supporting public services like the NHS and the future success of businesses.

“This change for Scotland is possible and necessary.”

Outlining the graduate visa plans, First Minister John Swinney said: “The pragmatic approach I am setting out when it comes to migration is an attractive proposition for international students and will ensure they can gain experience as they work towards the high salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa.

“I urge the UK government to work with us – not dismiss this proposal out of hand – to ensure that we can attract and retain those students and graduates to Scotland, so that they can continue to contribute to our economy and society.”


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