Immigration stands as a pivotal issue in both Scottish and British politics
Immigration is a central issue in the constitutional discourse surrounding Scottish independence and sovereignty. It holds sway over decisions about UK membership and the potential rejoining of the EU, resonating throughout the political landscape within and beyond Scotland. The sovereignty debate, exacerbated by Brexit and the prospect of a second independence referendum, has ignited controversy over British parliamentary sovereignty versus Scotland’s popular sovereignty.
This centres on whether ultimate territorial authority rests with Westminster or the Scottish people. This controversy reveals a division in immigration issues, prompting the UK Government to distinguish between immigration as a policy concern related to border management and as a matter of sovereignty and identity.
Immigrants and refugees in Scotland often express a stronger inclination to identify as Scottish compared to those who identify as British in England. While dual national identities aren’t inherently incompatible, political actors at both state and sub-state levels may seek to influence and shape these identities for political gain. Therefore, the need to evaluate the division and depoliticize this issue becomes increasingly crucial. In addressing the immigration matter, a depoliticising perspective is required. This perspective should consider internal ideological elements driven by partisan competition and external constitutional factors shaped by European integration and the relationships among the EU, UK, and Scotland, all intertwined with Scottish territorial interests.