Illegal Migration Bill Devolved Administrations 2023-07-03
2023-07-03
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Illegal Migration Bill is under debate and has raised concerns about its impact on devolved administrations' powers, particularly concerning support services for victims of human trafficking.
I am concerned that the Bill will restrict Scottish Ministers' powers by removing entitlements for victims of human trafficking to access government-funded support services. Why should Scotland's elected Parliament be forced down a path it clearly opposes?
I have engaged regularly with devolved Administrations on the Bill since its introduction in March. The most recent meeting was with the Scottish Minister for Equalities, Migration and Refugees in May. The Bill will be discussed at an inter-ministerial group chaired by my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary later this month.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific restrictions on devolved powers were not addressed directly
Changed Subject To Upcoming Meetings
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The SNP Government's accommodation rate for asylum seekers is significantly lower than the UK average, despite Scotland's population percentage.
We know that Scotland has a different approach to the hostile environment ideology. Why should Scotland be forced down this route when it clearly opposes it?
If the Scottish Government truly cared, they would accommodate more asylum seekers. For example, Clackmannanshire has zero asylum seekers accommodated by the SNP.
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Assessment & feedback
Changed Subject To Specific Local Authority Accommodation Rates
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Glasgow accommodates more refugees per capita than any other UK local authority, challenging the notion that Scotland is not welcoming.
The Minister knows Glasgow takes more refugees per head than anywhere else in the UK. What action will he take to devolve power and financial means so Scotland can welcome more refugees?
For good reason, immigration is reserved. Statistics show the SNP refuses to accommodate asylum seekers, making them hypocritical and irresponsible.
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Assessment & feedback
Changed Subject To Accusing Scotland Of Hypocrisy
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The SNP's policy on immigration and asylum seekers has been ruled unlawful, prompting calls for changes to improve the system.
It is not our policies that have been ruled unlawful. To improve the system, there must be actions to clear backlogs, proper legal rights for arrival, and work rights upon arrival.
The Home Office suggested a vessel used for Ukrainian refugees could also house other asylum seekers in Leith. The SNP rejected this suggestion.
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Assessment & feedback
Changed Subject To Specific Rejection Of Accommodation Offer
Response accuracy