UK and Scotland immigration meet to discuss growth

November 10 2009 by Liam Clifford

Meeting between Scottish and UK governments to fulfil Scotland's projected immigration targets.

The Scottish minister for External Affairs, Michael Russell, has today met the UK’s immigration minister, Phil Woolas, to discuss the points based UK immigration system.

The aim of the meeting was to discuss how the system can be used to support Scotland’s projected population growth target.

The talks centred on policy involving the Tier 5 UK visa and Scotland being openly publicised as an option for migrants seeking this option. Another issue discussed was the UK border agency and the Scottish government working together with Scottish businesses to fill skill shortages in Scotland.

Mr Russell said:

"The Scottish Government's position is clear. Scotland has an ageing population and an increasing dependency ratio. We need the flexibility within the system to attract more people of working age to contribute to our economy, fill skills gaps and help us prosper over the longer term.”

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