LEADERS of Scotland’s political parties have urged the Prime Minister to offer refugees fleeing war-torn Ukraine “sanctuary first” rather than subjecting them to “complex bureaucratic processes”. The letter says a lack of clarity from the UK Government around settlement programmes and complex visa processes is delaying Scotland from welcoming refugees from Ukraine. The politicians have called for a comprehensive and funded settlement programme and a package of support to be established. "Scotland stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and deeply wishes to provide them with practical support, aid and refuge. While the EU is allowing Ukrainians three-year residency without a visa, the UK government say there need to be security checks on everyone coming here.

Source: The Herald March 12, 2022 03:21 UTC