SNP and Further Education Officials Call for Clarity on Tax Hike for International Students

The SNP and further education officials have expressed concerns about the Labour Government's plans to impose a 6% levy on funds generated by international students for Scottish universities. The proposed tax hike is estimated to cost £85 million per year if implemented. This move has left Scottish universities in a state of uncertainty, with education being a devolved power but immigration still controlled by Westminster. Further education officials have joined the backlash against Labour's proposed immigration reforms, calling for a Scottish Graduate Visa to allow international graduates to work and contribute to the economy.

Key Takeaways:

• The Labour Government's proposed 6% levy on international student fees could cost Scottish universities £85 million per year.
• The levy's applicability to Scottish universities is unclear, with education being a devolved power but immigration still controlled by Westminster.
• Further education officials, including Universities Scotland, are urging the UK Government to reconsider the impact of the levy on universities and Scotland's attractiveness as a study destination.
• The SNP is calling for a Scottish Graduate Visa, which would allow international graduates to work and contribute to the economy for two years whilst working towards a Skilled Worker Visa.
• Labour's proposed immigration reforms are seen as a threat to Scotland's NHS, economy, and universities.
• The UK Labour Government's decision to hike employer National Insurance contributions has already resulted in a £30m bill for Scottish universities.

Statistics:

• The estimated annual cost of the 6% levy on international student fees for Scottish universities: £85 million.
• The current annual bill for Scottish universities due to Labour's decision to hike employer National Insurance contributions: £30 million.
• The proposed duration of the Scottish Graduate Visa: 2 years.

Sources:

• "SNP file formal complaint over 'race-baiting' Reform UK ad" by THE
• Universities Scotland