Devolution (Immigration) (Scotland) Bill
Debate between Kirsty Blackman and Richard QuigleyFriday 25th April 2025
(1 week, 6 days ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Devolution (Immigration) (Scotland) Bill 2024-26 View all Devolution (Immigration) (Scotland) Bill 2024-26 Debates Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Mr Quigley
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his intervention. I wish I had all the answers to his questions, because I am sure it would have saved us time. It is now six minutes to 11, and I could have had a longer breakfast.
Duplicating things for one part of the country does not solve a problem; it creates one. If the SNP cannot manage a shipbuilding contract without going £260 million over budget, what makes us think it would manage immigration efficiently or affordably?
Mr Quigley
I will make slightly more progress and then give way.
The Bill proposes the devolution of immigration powers to the Scottish Government, under the argument that economic migration could support rural and island communities. Let me be absolutely clear: I agree that migration, when done properly, can be a lifeline. It can bring new energy to struggling areas, provide vital workers and enrich our communities. But this Bill, with all the good will in the world, fails to offer the security, clarity or accountability needed to deliver those outcomes.
Kirsty Blackman
When I came into this debate, I did not expect the main thrust of the Labour party’s argument to be a concession that it will not win the next Holyrood election. Labour Members have consistently said that this is about handing powers to the SNP. Do they understand how democracy works? Or are they looking at the polls and saying, “Oh my goodness, we are totally in trouble before 2026, so it’s got to be an SNP Government next year”?
Mr Quigley
That is a bit of a reach.
How will the Scottish Government manage border security between England and Scotland? How will they ensure consistency with UK immigration policy? How will they safeguard against misuse or confusion about legal status? These questions remain unanswered, and regrettably this Bill would create far more uncertainty than solutions.