The SNP brought forward a motion regarding immigration at Fife Council. Fife Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Councillor James Calder led the the Liberal Democrat response.

James Calder said,

The current immigration plans by the Conservative Government are economically illiterate and mean that many of our sectors face a major labour shortage. However the SNP motion as initially proposed would risk creating a disastrous internal border within the UK.

The Liberal Democrats have argued for a sectoral approach that would mean that businesses and public services will be able to get the staff they need to ensure our economy continues to keep working. Right now we have worries that agriculture, health and social care, tourism and hospitality would suffer under the Conservative plans.

The final motion that was agreed by the Council has fortunately been toned down. I would continue to urge for a sensible and evidence-based approach to immigration which would take into account the needs of various sectors.