Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus MacNeil today met virtually with Minister Douglas Ross at the Scotland Office along with other cross-party colleagues to discuss a range of issues.

Mr MacNeil raised the point that one of the cheapest things which could now be done is the enabling by the Home Office of non-EEA fishermen to come and work in the west coast of Scotland. Mr MacNeil pointed out that this could be one of the few things the government could do quickly, easily and cheaply.

Commenting Mr MacNeil said:

“It wouldn’t cost a penny, in fact, it would raise tax revenues as well as helping the Scottish fishing industry get going as quickly as possible.

“I hope the Home office drop their stubborn nonsense which they have maintained over the last few years.  Their arrogance cannot continue and surely this time we will see that the Scottish Office can manage to make them listen to some sense and enable non-EEA fishermen to work in the west coast of Scotland, helping the much needed recovery in one of the most economically disadvantaged areas. All they need to do is lift a pen and the problem is sorted.”

ENDS