Scotland’s deputy first minister says she is in “no doubt” that the country’s care system will suffer from UK government plans to tighten immigration rules.

Kate Forbes said Scotland needed to take a “distinct approach” to the rest of the UK. It came as care home bosses claimed the immigration plans could lead to closures and longer NHS waiting lists.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said his proposals would “take back control” of UK borders. As part of the new strategy, the Labour administration is aiming to cut the recruitment of care workers from overseas and tighten English language requirements for immigrants.

Forbes said she listened with “absolute astonishment” to reports that the UK government wanted to cut the recruitment of overseas care workers. Forbes said: “With a small population of about five million people, Scotland needs a distinct immigration system, a distinct approach to the immigration system, we have shared that with the UK government.”

Meanwhile, following the release of the United Kingdom Immigration White Paper on Monday, the British High Commission in Nigeria has issued a formal statement addressing the potential implications and reaffirming the UK’s relationship with Nigeria.

A spokesperson for the British High Commission said the UK values its strong, long-standing ties with Nigeria, highlighting the continued popularity of the UK as a destination for Nigerians seeking opportunities to work, study, visit, and settle.

The spokesperson explained that the newly released White Paper outlines planned reforms to the UK’s legal migration system. The reforms aim to restore order, control, and fairness, while also reducing net migration and supporting economic growth.

According to the High Commission, the implementation of these changes will be gradual, and the UK government intends to consult with relevant partners in Nigeria’s federal government once further details become available.

The statement concluded by emphasizing the UK’s tradition as an outward-looking nation that welcomes the contributions of those who come to the country, recognising the creativity, ideas, and diversity they bring.