First Minister met representatives from
social care, education, rural, tourism, business and local
government to discuss the implications of the UK Government's
Immigration White Paper.
The roundtable provided an early opportunity to better understand
some of the key concerns facing different sectors across the
country. This will form the basis of further engagement with
organisations, businesses and communities to ensure as many
safeguards as possible are being explored and will help underpin
future engagement with the UK Government to recognise the
distinct migration needs facing Scotland.
Speaking after of the meeting, the First Minister said:
“Scotland is proud to welcome and support people from around the
world who choose to live, work and build their lives in our
country. Not only does migration enrich our communities and
culture, it is vital for economic growth, public services like
the NHS and addressing our population challenges.
“The significant benefits we see from migration explain why there
was such deep disappointment that the UK Government's white paper
fails to take on board our proposals to help meet Scotland's
distinct demographic and economic requirements. I feel strongly
that a one-size fits all approach to immigration will not meet
the needs of Scotland or much of the UK.
“We remain willing to work with the UK Government to deliver an
immigration system that avoids harm to our economy, communities,
and public services. To do that work effectively, it was
important to hear directly from representatives of the sectors
that will be affected if the proposals are implemented in their
current form. I am grateful to the partners who agreed to share
their views with me today in order to help guide our next steps
on this crucial issues.”
