Brexit costs are piling up, the SNP has said after fresh research revealed the UK faces a massive worker shortfall of around 300,000 as a result of the end of freedom of movement.
A joint assessment from ‘UK in a Changing Europe’ and ‘Centre for European Reform’ warned the ending of free movement was “contributing significantly” to labour shortages in several sectors, including logistics, construction and hospitality.
Commenting, the SNP’s Europe and EU Accession spokesperson, Alyn Smith MP said:
“The costs of Brexit are piling up before our eyes with the latest reports revealing the scale of worker shortages.
“Consistent Tory refusals to take the threat of worker shortages seriously has left industries devastated with businesses and public services left to scrape by without the necessary staffing levels.
“What industries, particularly in Scotland, are calling out for is more immigration to fix the shortfalls they’re facing – something this UK government is incapable of delivering due to their Brexit-obsessed ideology.
“Once again, Scotland’s unique needs are being ignored by Westminster, demonstrating exactly why we should take matters into our own hands with the full powers of independence in Europe.”
UK worker shortfall due to Brexit curbs estimated at 330,000
Brexit Costs Piling Up As Scale of Worker Shortages Revealed
