‘Tiny number’ of migrants do not behave appropriately – Sarwar

Anas Sarwar has said a “tiny number” of migrants who come to the UK do not behave appropriately, as the Home Secretary prepares to outline tougher stance on those seeking indefinite leave to remain.

The Scottish Labour leader said the “vast majority” of migrants come in order to contribute to the country.

At the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to set out a series of conditions for those seeking indefinite leave to remain status.

These will include having to learn English to a high standard, having a clean criminal record and volunteer in their community.

The proposed changes would also require asylum seekers to be in work, paying national insurance and not be claiming benefits.

Mr Sarwar was asked about the plans as he appeared on the BBC’s Good Morning Scotland radio programme.

He said he would await the detail of the Home Secretary’s proposals, adding: “The vast, vast majority of migrants come to this country, contribute to our country, help lead or deliver our public services or grow our economy.”

He continued: “There are a small number, a tiny number, who come here and do not behave appropriately.

“And I would also emphasise that that’s not just migrants, there are people here in our country who don’t play by the rules, who don’t play by the system.”

He was also asked if Andy Burnham would make a good Prime Minister.

Mr Sarwar said Mr Burnham is a “fantastic” mayor of Manchester, who provides a good model for Scottish Labour’s planned regional mayors north of the border.

He said the people of Manchester “need him”, adding: “He’s not running for prime minister…

“He’s not an MP so can’t run for prime minister. There are so many ifs, buts and maybes in that scenario.

“But is he a fantastic Labour voice, delivering lots of good Labour value, in principal, and improving the lives of people in Greater Manchester? Of course he is.”