THE situation in Calais is complex and requires a multi-agency response involving both the UK and French authorities.
While it is important that UK borders are appropriately controlled and managed, we need a long-term strategy, which responds to the human and humanitarian issues around migration.
By refusing to take its fair share of vulnerable migrants, or engage constructively, the UK Government has turned its back on those in desperate need of help and, in turn, has contributed to the situation that has now developed.
The UK has a moral obligation to play its part. And, of course, Scotland stands ready to do the same. The EU also has a collective responsibility.?
The Scottish Government wholeheartedly disagrees with the UK’s refusal to take part in the EU’s relocation scheme, and once again I urge the prime minister to reconsider his position on this vital issue. Doing so will save lives.?
Recently, I have met with representatives from both the UNHCR and the Refugee Council and I remain convinced that Scotland, the UK and the EU, have a moral obligation to provide humanitarian assistance.?
The Scottish Government has repeatedly made clear its desire to play a part in efforts to provide a place of safety to those in desperate need.
So while we welcome the news that the European Council has agreed a scheme to relocate 40,000 migrants who have fled danger and crossed the Mediterranean, we are hugely disappointed that the prime minister has now confirmed the UK will not join in this collective effort.?
More can and should be done to help migrants who have crossed the Mediterranean.?
At the very least the UK should stand alongside other member states and take its proportionate share so that we in Scotland can do the same.
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