THE SNP and further education officials have called for the Labour Government to confirm whether a new tax on international students will be applied to Scottish universities.
Keir Starmer announced plans to impose a 6% levy on funds generated for universities by international students amidst his crackdown on immigration, with reports estimating the tax hike could cost Scottish universities £85 million per year if implemented.
Scottish universities have been “left in limbo” regarding the levy, with education being a devolved power but immigration still controlled by Westminster, and further education officials have joined the growing backlash against Labour’s proposed immigration reforms.
Claire McPherson, director of Universities Scotland, said: “We urge the UK Government to think carefully about the impact that a levy on international student fees will have on universities, and the attractiveness of the UK as a study destination.
“We’d hope to see the UK Government defer a decision on the applicability of any levy in Scotland to the Scottish Government, reflecting the fact that university funding is devolved.”
The SNP continues calls for a Scottish Graduate Visa, which would allow international graduates from Scottish universities to work and contribute to the economy for two years whilst working towards a Skilled Worker Visa
SNP MSP Bill Kidd said: “Last week we had the unedifying spectacle of Keir Starmer dancing to Nigel Farage’s tune on immigration as he announced plans which are completely out of sync with Scotland’s needs and values.
“Labour’s damaging migration plans are a direct threat to Scotland’s NHS, our economy and our universities.
“The UK Labour Government has already slapped our universities with a £30m bill with their reckless decision to hike employer National Insurance contributions.
“Our universities have now been left in limbo not knowing if they are faced with a further bill of £85m directly due to Labour’s political choices, whilst they also face the prospect of finding it harder to attract international students.
“Keir Starmer must urgently provide clarity on whether this proposed tax on international students will apply in Scotland, whether he will look again at introducing a Scottish Graduate Visa, and whether he will listen to experts from across various sectors and ditch his damaging anti-immigration agenda.”
