EDUCATION must be at the heart of Brexit negotiations, NUS Scotland’s new leader has told MPs.
Luke Humberstone, who begins his term as president of the students’ body on July 1, has written to all Scots MPs calling on them to prioritise education as exit talks begin.
Humberstone, who succeeds Vonnie Sandlan, is also urging the group to “renew efforts” to secure the reintroduction of a post-study work visa for international students.
Timed to reach politicians ahead of the state opening of parliament and the Queen’s Speech, the call follows General Election campaigning for an immigration change that NUS Scotland says was backed by every party in the Scottish Parliament.
Humberstone said: “The UK Government has largely ignored the impact Brexit will have on students and young people. This can’t go on and the election result has shown that young people are hungry for change.
“We want to see the UK Government ensure education plays a key role. We are calling on MPs from all parties to work with us to help ensure this is the case.
“Along with every other political party in the Scottish Parliament, the Scottish Conservatives have been strong supporters of calls for the reintroduction of the post-study work visa. It’s a policy that has overwhelming support, and would bring huge benefits for our institutions, communities and country — and one that becomes ever more important as Brexit looms large.
“We are urging all Scottish MPs to continue to press the case for its reintroduction, and urge Ruth Davison to raise this issue directly with the Prime Minister, in light of the changing political landscape.”
He went on: “With Brexit threatening to impact negatively on those in education, our elected representatives have a duty to ensure students and young people continue to have access to the opportunities and experiences that will enable them to reach their full potential.”
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