The House of Commons recently debated an SNP private members' bill proposing the devolution of immigration powers to the Scottish Parliament. Private members' bills provide a rare and valuable opportunity for MPs to shape legislation or start a national debate.

In the past, such bills have meaningfully addressed challenges from homelessness and domestic abuse to assisted dying and stronger rights for carers. At a time when the SNP could have chosen similarly substantive legislation, they instead opted for a futile gesture; it was nothing more than a political stunt. Nevertheless, since they have insisted on making this argument, it must not go unanswered.

The idea that Scotland, while still part of the UK, could independently manage its own immigration system is not a serious one. Implementing such a policy would create chaos at our borders, severely undermine national security and counter-terrorism efforts, and inflict significant economic damage.

Yet, beyond highlighting the SNP’s reckless proposals, there is an urgent and important question that Scotland must address: how can we attract skilled individuals and become a more appealing destination for those who will genuinely enhance our economy and society?
Scotland faces distinct demographic challenges. Our population is ageing faster than the rest of the UK: by 2045, nearly a quarter of Scots will be 65 or older.

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