Question reference: S5W-07791
- Asked by: Christina McKelvie, MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 7 March 2017
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Current status: Answered by Alasdair Allan on 15 March 2017
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it has had with the UK Government in relation to Irene Clennell since her deportation on 26 February 2017, following her detention at Dungavel detention centre.
Answer
I recently raised my concerns regarding Mrs Clennell's situation whilst giving evidence to the Home Affairs Committee as part of their inquiry into immigration. It appears Mrs Clennell's case is yet another example of someone being let down by ever tightening UK immigration rules, further demonstrating that this is a system which is not fit for purpose.
Mrs Clennell’s case also highlighted real concerns of the situation in Dungavel, and how it is being used. We have campaigned for its replacement with a more humane system and the Cabinet Secretary for Communities, Social Security and Equalities Angela Constance, has written to the UK Government regarding this issue.
The Scottish Government has long pressed the UK Government for a fair and managed immigration system that meets Scotland's needs. The Scottish Government is sympathetic to those who have difficulties navigating the complex and increasingly restrictive UK Immigration rules. The UK Government must deliver a more humane immigration system that recognises individual circumstances, and provides a welcoming environment for people who chose to move here, and for their families.