Scottish government pledge free bus travel pilot for refugees in next year

THE SNP Scottish government have committed to “develop and deliver” a free bus travel pilot and proposals for the right to work for people seeking asylum by April.

Those awaiting asylum claims are presently expected to live on just £6 a day, effectively barring them from accessing public transport which in Glasgow can cost as much as £5 for an all-day bus pass.

That could be set to change as the Scottish government launches a plan to pilot free bus travel, and present proposals to the UK government allowing people seeking asylum to work.

Launching the plan, Glasgow University professor and the New Scots Core Group chairwoman Alison Phipps said it “offers an exciting commitment to action across Scotland and to embedding the rights of all who seek refuge.”

SNP equalities minister Kaukab Stewart added: “Scotland has a proud history of welcoming those fleeing war and persecution and we are dedicated to helping them integrate into communities from the day they arrive.

“It is vital that we support refugees and people seeking asylum to understand their rights and access employment and services to help them to rebuild their lives in Scotland.”