Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has welcomed changes in the immigration rules being proposed by the UK Government.
Speaking today (Tuesday 17th September) in a Scottish Government debate on migration, Mr Halcro Johnston highlighted the role migrants played in the economic and social life of the region, and said lobbying by business, the Scottish Conservatives and others was being acted on.
After the debate, the Scottish Conservative MSP commented: “Those who choose to come and live and work in the Highlands and Islands - whether that’s from other parts of Scotland, the UK, the EU or wider afield - play a huge part in our economic and social life. They are our colleagues, our family and our friends.
“That’s why it’s so important that, while the UK Government looks introduce a fair, rules-based new immigration system as we leave the EU, it must be one that recognises the needs of all our communities and sectors, especially those where migration plays a huge role.
“I am therefore pleased that lobbying by the Scottish Conservatives, businesses and others has been acted on, especially with the very positive news announced last week around post-study work for students who wish to work here after they have finished their studies, as well as the progress being made on a seasonal agricultural workers scheme
“Having listened to businesses – and to local communities - these have been priorities for the Scottish Conservatives and it highlights just why it is important that, rather than shouting from the side-lines as some do, we continue to engage and to consult with the UK Government as they make progress towards a reformed system.
“However, the Scottish Government also has a role to play in making Scotland an attractive place for people to come and work. Unfortunately, their current approach of making Scotland the highest taxed part of the UK, as well as their squeeze on public funding, is completely at odds with that”.
