Scots want power over immigration ‘to make it more welcoming’
Most Scottish voters want Holyrood to be handed powers over immigration as part of a devolution process, in order to disassociate the country from the increasingly harsh policies being implemented south of the border.
A Survation poll found 66.3% agreed members of the Scottish parliament should control immigration, while just 20% wanted the powers to remain at the Westminster level.
Almost all 'yes' voters wanted the powers transferred north of the border, but even 41.2% of 'no' voters agreed with them.
Just 39.8% of 'no' voters thought immigration powers should stay in Westminster.
"There is a huge economic opportunity for Scotland if we have control over immigration policy. It's significant that even those opposed to independence at this stage appear to see the potential," Green MSP Alison Johnstone, whose party commissioned the poll, said.
"Our digital technology, tourism, renewable energy, science and food sectors are all starting to take off. With a more welcoming policy we’d have a better chance of addressing any skills shortages, in turn generating tax revenue to support public services.
"In recent days, Gordon Brown, Menzies Campbell, David Cameron and Johann Lamont have failed to address the need to give Scotland control over how it welcomes the world. It’s clear to me the only option on the table that will deliver the approach we need is a Yes vote in September."
Labour's plans for further devolution do not include powers over immigration.
