Nigel Farage’s latest call for mass deportations has sparked strong criticism from the SNP, who say the proposal would risk collapsing Scotland’s NHS and crashing the UK economy “all over again”.
The Reform UK leader announced plans that would see hundreds of thousands of legally settled migrants deported from the UK, including key workers across health, care and hospitality.
Pete Wishart MP, the SNP’s depute Westminster leader, described the move as “desperate and despicable”, and accused Labour of “following Farage” instead of offering a real alternative.
“Farage’s plans would threaten the collapse of our NHS and would crash the economy all over again,” said Mr Wishart.
“Instead of attacking the very people keeping our services going, we should be facing the truth, Brexit broke Britain, and Farage was the architect.”
The comments come as former Labour leader Neil Kinnock publicly urged his party to stop chasing Reform UK’s rhetoric.
In an intervention over the weekend, Lord Kinnock said it was “time to look at rejoining” the EU and the Dublin protocols, both aimed at improving trade and easing the small boats crisis.
The SNP argue that Scotland’s workforce, economy and public services are already under pressure, and cannot afford the consequences of a mass deportation policy.
“It is shameful that Keir Starmer and Labour are now following Farage on immigration, just as they did on Brexit,” said Mr Wishart.
“They’re not challenging him, they’re copying him.”
The SNP continue to make the case for Scotland having full control over migration policy, arguing that Westminster’s approach fails to reflect the country’s needs.
“With independence, Scotland could set a migration policy that works, one that supports our economy, welcomes skilled workers, and strengthens public services,” said Mr Wishart.
“Instead of a Farage future under Westminster control, we could choose something better.”
