TWO WORD TEASE: Political Clash Ross Greer, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, has blasted Reform UK’s proposal to build large immigration detention centres in constituencies including those represented by Green politicians. The plan was revealed by Reform home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf and involves locating centres outside seats held by Reform MPs or local authorities. In response, Reform Scotland councillor Thomas Kerr confirmed centres would be targeted at areas electing Green MSPs.
Greers Concentration Camp Claim
Speaking in Edinburgh, Ross Greer described the detention centres as “concentration camps” and criticised the plan for punishing vulnerable asylum seekers. He highlighted Britain’s historical use of such camps during the Boer War and drew parallels with a harsh political threat aimed at voters. Greer added:
“The Greens are proud that Scotland is a welcoming country and we show sanctuary and solidarity to people who need it. The last thing we should do is detain immigrants or refugees in camps. We should be giving asylum seekers the right to work.”
Reform UK Rejects Comparison
Lord Malcolm Offord, leader of Reform in Scotland, dismissed Greer’s comments as a “complete misuse of language,” rejecting the phrase “concentration camps.” He emphasised humane treatment but stressed that those entering illegally need processing. On siting centres, Offord said:
“If the Green constituencies wish to accommodate that, we should locate them more where they are wanted, where they have voted for that.”
Political Fallout Intensifies
Ross Greer also urged Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to reject any potential support from Reform MSPs in a bid to become First Minister. Sarwar accused the Greens of playing post-election political games and said his focus was on winning.
Sharp Party Response
A Reform UK spokesperson condemned the Greens, stating:
“Ross Greer and the Greens want to abolish prisons, legalise drugs and open borders. Legal heroin and murderers roaming the streets – voters will certainly reject that.”
