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Scotland's Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, has voiced serious concerns that the UK government's newly outlined immigration plans will severely impact the nation's already strained care system. Speaking out after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer detailed proposals to tighten UK borders and reduce net migration, Forbes expressed "absolute astonishment" at the suggestion of cutting the recruitment of overseas care workers.
Starmer's plans, revealed at a recent news conference, aim to "take back control" of UK borders following a significant increase in net migration, which reportedly quadrupled between 2019 and 2023, reaching almost one million in the year leading up to 2023. The Prime Minister described this level as "chaos" rather than control.
The proposed changes include stricter English language requirements for immigrants across all routes, an increase in the time required for citizenship applications (extending to 10 years, with potential fast-tracking for "high-contributing" individuals like doctors and nurses), and tighter rules for adult dependants, who will also need to demonstrate a basic understanding of English. Furthermore, skilled worker visas will necessitate a university degree, and there will be increased restrictions on recruitment for jobs currently facing skills shortages, a category that includes care workers.
Forbes argued that these proposals are "baffling" for those within the care industry and warned of the detrimental effects on Scotland, which faces unique "demographic challenges." She highlighted that the ability to recruit a workforce is a pressing issue for investors, developers, and public services in Scotland, which has a smaller population of around five million people.
The Deputy First Minister reiterated the need for a "distinct immigration system" and a separate approach for Scotland, suggesting a potential "Scottish visa." This proposal, however, has been previously dismissed by the UK government. Forbes also raised concerns about stricter standards for graduate visas, given the significant contribution of international students to Scotland's economic growth.
Sir Keir Starmer defended his plans by emphasizing the importance of "fair rules" for a diverse nation, arguing that without them, the UK risks becoming "an island of strangers." However, Forbes's strong reaction underscores the potential for significant divergence in immigration needs and perspectives between different parts of the UK, particularly concerning vital sectors like social care. The debate now centres on how these national immigration policies will accommodate the specific requirements of individual regions and industries to avoid exacerbating existing challenges.
