Scottish Chambers calls for practical immigration deal for Scotland

A separate deal for Scotland on freedom of movement is a “practical” solution and would not require a hard border, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) has said.

Liz Cameron, CEO of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said that Scotland relied “heavily” on EU residents and that the Chambers of Commerce would continue to “plea” to the UK government for a separate immigration deal – arguing that separate immigration criteria already exists in Scotland with the Category Tier 2 policy.

On negotiations with the UK government, Liz Cameron continued: “In meetings they are saying they are listening – we measure that listening in terms of what actions they are going to put in place.”

Joan McAlpine MSP, who convenes Holyrood’s Europe committee, said: “The Tories’ rhetoric on the prospect of a hard border and the claim that a separate deal on freedom of movement for Scotland isn’t feasible is just not washing with anybody anymore.

“Talking to the BBC today, Liz Cameron praised the business community for demonstrating much-needed leadership – something which we have not seen from the UK’s Department for International Trade.

“Our economy needs EU nationals living, working and contributing to our society - and Scotland’s business community recognises this. Ending freedom of movement would be an irresponsible act of self-sabotage by this Tory Government that has repeatedly refused to guarantee the rights of EU nationals.

“The SNP Government will continue to call for tailored immigration powers to match Scotland’s demographic needs – because it will be our businesses, universities and research facilities that miss out on talent, and our economy that falls behind.”