A SCOTTISH Tory MP has been branded “morally repugnant” for uniting with right-wing MPs to call for the mass deportation of migrants.
John Lamont, former shadow Scottish secretary, backed a House of Commons motion calling on the UK Government to “identify, detain, and deport all individuals found to be residing in the United Kingdom illegally”.
It adds that the UK Government should ensure this is backed up by “the necessary legislative, diplomatic, logistical and financial resources to restore confidence in the rule of law and the security of our borders”.
The Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP, and former Scotland Office minister under Alister Jack, signed the motion, which was tabled on April 24, on May 8.
Lamont was one of 16 MPs to sign the early day motion, including former Reform members Rupert Lowe and James McMurdock, DUP MP Jim Shannon and fellow Tory Gavin Williamson.
SNP MSP Rona Mackay, who serves on Holyrood’s criminal justice committee, said MPs supporting mass deportations “should be ashamed”.
“This language and approach are not only morally repugnant but dangerously inflammatory. It ignores the complexities of asylum and immigration and demonises vulnerable people seeking safety and a better life,” she said.
“The SNP stands firmly against this inhumane rhetoric.”
“This anti-migrant crusade by right-wing politicians like Lamont has already done irreparable damage to Scotland’s public services, economy and communities,” Greer said.
“We can thank their cruel policies every time a care package can’t be delivered or an NHS post can’t be filled because willing and qualified staff weren’t even allowed into the UK.
“It is time for Scotland to have powers over our own immigration policies, so that we can build a system that welcomes and respects the people who want to move here and which supports rather than undermines our public services and economy.”
“People in Britain illegally shouldn’t be here. They need to be removed,” Lamont told The Times.
“People have had enough. We need to take back control of our borders, for good.”
