Tim Farron in Scotland: Scotland’s parties can embarrass Tories into action on migrant crisis

Tim Farron was up in Scotland this week, on his first visit since becoming leader.. He hosted a roundtable session in Edinburgh with the Scottish Refugee Council, Amnesty and the Refugee Women's Strategy Group. Issues discussed included devolution and refugees, making asylum work for women and what political parties could do in the UK and Scotland to campaign for fairer treatment of vulnerable refugees.

After the meeting, Tim said:

"It is tragic that so many lives have been lost in the Mediterranean. The situation in Calais is just the tip the global humanitarian crisis which has seen 60 million people forced to flee from their homes.

"I am determined the Liberal Democrats will lead the liberal case for a compassionate approach to the plight of refugees.

"On my first visit to Scotland as leader I wanted to meet with humanitarian groups to establish what political leaders can do to change the tone of this debate.

"I believe we can build a broader, liberal platform for change which could embarrass the Tories into action.

"I hope that the SNP and Labour will show a willingness to put aside political differences and back our calls for action."

Willie Rennie added:

"I pay tribute to these organisations for the incredible work they do day in and day out to support refugees living in Scotland.

"I was interested to hear more about what the Scottish party can do to ensure refugees are better supported in communities across Scotland.

"The protection the human rights of refugees also transcends party politics. This is why we need more partnership working between the UK Government, the Scottish Government and local councils."

Tim also spent time meeting members for a lively question and answer session (of which more tomorrow) and also met both broadcast and print journalists.

* Caron Lindsay is Editor of Liberal Democrat Voice and blogs at Caron's Musings