Question reference: S6W-24809
- Asked by: Kevin Stewart, MSP for Aberdeen Central, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 25 January 2024
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Current status: Answered by Graeme Dey on 8 February 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of any potential disproportionate impact of UK visa restrictions, in relation to family members accompanying students, on certain nationalities, and the reported importance of attracting diverse talent to Scottish universities, whether it has had any discussions with the UK Government to advocate for exemptions or greater flexibility in the policy for specific cases or countries.
Answer
The Scottish Government has urged the UK Government to adopt an inclusive approach to family migration to ensure that those with caring responsibilities are not excluded from our education institutions. Scotland must be able to attract and retain talent without excessive barriers and migration policy should support mobility, collaboration and innovation.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice wrote to the new Home Secretary on the 22 December, highlighting Scotland’s distinct demographic needs and requested a meeting to discuss our concerns.