NHS under threat from Nigel Farage's mass deporation plans
Nigel Farage has announced plans to end the Indefinite Leave to Remain scheme, which allows thousands to work and live in the country, following the Brexit referendum that Scotland roundly rejected.
These proposals from the far-right MP could see thousands of Scots deported, despite having lived and worked in the country for at least five years.
Reacting to the proposals, Scottish Greens MSP Maggie Chapman said:
"This is a grotesque proposal that will spread deep anxiety across our communities.
"It would rip families and communities apart, with people forced to leave loved ones, jobs, and so much more. Many people already with Indefinite Leave to Remain have been here for years: they've made their lives here, they contribute to communities, pay taxes, support our public services. It goes beyond anything that even the most racist Tory governments have done.
"The current system is already harsh and unforgiving and consigns families and individuals to totally avoidable poverty by banning them from claiming social security and support at a time when the cost of living is higher than ever.
"A lot of people are really concerned about the radicalisation we are seeing in UK politics, with the Tories, Labour and Reform competing to see who can be the nastiest while mobs surround hotels, intimidating those trapped inside by a cruel and inhumane system.
"We can and must do better than this, and in my head and my heart I believe that Scotland would. With polls suggesting Reform could form the next government it's vital that all progressive parties, MPs and MSPs unite to ensure that Scotland has the powers to set our own welcoming and humane immigration policies."