Scottish Work Visa Scheme 2024-09-04
2024-09-04
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the need to address specific migration and skills issues in Scotland that differ from other parts of the UK.
If he will make an assessment with Cabinet colleagues of the potential merits of devolving the power to introduce a Scottish work visa scheme to the Scottish Government.
We will strengthen the Migration Advisory Committee, and establish a framework for joint working with skills bodies across the UK, the Industrial Strategy Council and the Department for Work and Pensions. The needs of our economy are different across the regions and nations, and different sectors have different needs.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide a direct assessment or commitment regarding devolving power to introduce a Scottish work visa scheme.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The tourism and hospitality sectors in Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber constituency are facing severe staffing shortages due to Brexit and the end of freedom of movement.
The tourism and hospitality sectors right across my Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber constituency are desperate for people to come and work, but because of Brexit and the end of freedom of movement, we have the jobs but we do not have the people. The Government know that Scotland needs people, so will the Government reaffirm Jackie Baillie's commitment—her assurance to voters—and commit to facilitating the creation of a Scottish visa?
We are committed to ensuring that there is effective Scottish representation on the Migration Advisory Committee, and I look forward to working with the Home Office and engaging with sectors on ensuring that immigration works for all parts of the UK.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to facilitating a Scottish visa but mentioned commitment to effective Scottish representation on the Migration Advisory Committee.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The current skilled worker salary threshold and skills list are deemed not effective in supporting Scotland's energy transition.
The skilled worker salary threshold and the skills list are simply not working. Will the Minister ensure that the skilled occupation list is fit for purpose in Scotland, and that it works for our energy transition?
Fixing the foundations of our economy is the key to long-term prosperity. That includes future-proofing the economy for all, whether that is long-established families or new arrivals. The Chancellor will set out plans to fix the foundations in the Budget on 30 October.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address ensuring the skilled occupation list works for Scotland's energy transition.
Changed Subject
Response accuracy