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Hugely disappointed in decision not to opt in to EU relocation scheme.

The UK must take action to tackle the migrant crisis in the Mediterranean, Europe Minister Humza Yousaf has said today.

Mr Yousaf said he was “hugely disappointed” the UK has decided not to participate in the EU-wide scheme to relocate tens of thousands of migrants who have crossed the Mediterranean.

In the latest of a series of calls on this issue, Mr Yousaf urged UK Prime Minster David Cameron to reconsider this decision, as the UK has a “moral obligation” to play its part – and Scotland stands ready to do the same.

Speaking following a meeting with Maurice Wren, Chief Executive of the Refugee Council, Mr Yousaf said:

“‪By refusing to take its fair share of vulnerable migrants the UK has turned its back on those in desperate need of help and failed to recognise the part it should play – as a full member state - in the EU’s collective responsibility to address this crisis.

‪“The Scottish Government wholeheartedly disagrees with the UK’s refusal to partake in the EU’s relocation scheme, and I once again urge the Prime Minister to reconsider his position on this vital issue. Doing so will save lives.

‪“Over the last few days I have met with representatives from both the UNHCR and the Refugee council and I remain convinced that Scotland and the UK, and all our friends and neighbours across the EU, have a moral obligation to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in danger.

‪“The Scottish Government has repeatedly made clear our desire to play a part in efforts to provide a place of safety to those in desperate need.

‪“So while we welcome the news that the European Council has agreed a scheme to relocate 40,000 migrants who have fled danger and crossed the Mediterranean, we are hugely disappointed that the Prime Minister has now confirmed the UK will not partake in this collective effort.

‪“Scotland is determined to be a good global citizen, committed to doing all we can to address poverty and help those around the world who are most in need. More can and should be done to help migrants who have crossed the Mediterranean. At the very least the UK should stand alongside other member states and take its proportionate share so that we in Scotland can do the same.”

Notes To Editors

On June 25, EU leaders agreed to relocate 40,000 people in dire need of international protection who have arrived in Greece and Italy, to other EU states over the next two years. The UK has chosen not to partake in the scheme.