Burnham rejects SNP pleas for a separate Scottish visa system despite warnings of population collapse

Andy Burnham's government has flatly rejected SNP proposals for a Scotland-specific visa scheme, with Downing Street telling The Scotsman the plans are "not being considered." The Scottish Government published a policy paper warning that Scotland's population will decline from 5.55 million to 5.47 million by 2049, as mortality rates overtake births. Business Minister Tom Arthur wrote to UK migration minister Jo White urging talks on tailoring immigration rules to Scotland's needs. A UK government source offered a partial opening, saying Burnham has "open ears" to plans that boost economic growth — but warned proposals that "start another constitutional fight" would be "a waste of time."

The SNP's draft proposals comprise two visa categories — one for rural areas and one for Scottish graduates — each intended to run as a five-year pilot.

John Swinney had pledged to engage with Burnham on a Scottish visa within his government's first 100 days.

A Scottish government source called the proposals 'grown-up plans' and challenged Burnham to prove his devolution credentials.