Newlands slams 'lacklustre' Queen's speech
Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, has slammed the Queen’s speech for failing to bring forward progressive legislation that will improve the economy and make us a fairer society.
The Queen’s speech, outlines the UK Government’s legislative agenda for the coming year.
Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said:
“This Queen’s speech represents a missed opportunity for the UK government to grow our economy and put forward legislation which will make us a fairer and more equal nation.
“This lacklustre legislative agenda highlights that this Tory government is more focused on the EU referendum than they are with governing the country.
“I’m sure I’m not the only one who would prefer if the Tories spent more time on governing and delivering the progressive legislation that is badly needed, than they do with infighting over the EU referendum.
Despite earlier calls by Gavin Newlands MP and others from across civil society, the UK government ignored requests for the post-study work visa to be re-introduced. Gavin added:
“'There is an overwhelming consensus from Scotland’s academic and business communities for a post study work scheme for Scotland. There is cross party agreement in Scotland and a real desire to see a scheme secured.
“It is really disappointing that the UK government continues to ignore these calls, and will lead many to think that they are out-of-step with what’s best for Scotland’s higher education sector.”
