The UK government turned down Scotland’s scheme for asylum seekers to work after six months, despite public support in Scotland.
Recent figures show many Scots agree with this change. The Scottish Refugee Council released these numbers. Sixty-two percent of Scots support the right to work.
However, the UK government rejected the plan. Angela Eagle is the Minister for Border Security and Asylum. She sent a letter explaining the rejection.
The proposed changes included easing job restrictions. Eagle stated there are no plans to change the policy now. She also could not explore the plan’s potential.
Eagle suggested asylum seekers volunteer instead. She also said people should seek asylum in the first safe country. This isn’t a legal requirement under the Refugee Convention.
Labour used to support letting asylum seekers work sooner. Their position has changed. The UK government agrees with a prior administration now.
Eagle’s words followed research showing Scottish support. Many Scots back the right to work while waiting for asylum decisions.
The Scottish Refugee Council also polled people about benefits. Many thought asylum seekers received over £50 weekly. Some believed they got £100 or more.
Actually, people get much less. Some get £8.86 per week with provided meals. Others get £49.18 with cooking access.
Kaukab Stewart is Scotland’s equalities minister. She said allowing earlier work is good for everyone. She’s sad the UK government rejected the pilot plan.
Stewart wants to discuss the pilot with the UK government. She also wants to improve current work policies.
Sabir Zazai leads the Scottish Refugee Council. He said people strongly support the right to work for asylum seekers. Many want to work but cannot.
The Home Office says work rights bypass visa rules. They said there are no plans to change the rules. Asylum seekers can apply to work after twelve months.
