VISITOR VISAS AND FAITH COMMUNITIES

Early day motion 778, tabled 7 December 2016 by Kirsten Oswald (Scottish National Party). Signed by 28 members.

That this House applauds the efforts of the Church of Scotland Glasgow Presbytery to engage in international twinning arrangements with groups including the Diocese of Hyderabad to promote and develop international and interfaith dialogue, constructive communications and mutual understanding; agrees that this kind of engagement benefits faith communities, and also society more widely; expresses disappointment that visa applications for the return twinning visit of the Hyderabad diocese to the Church of Scotland have twice been refused; urges the Government to reverse this decision; suggests that the current system is simply not fit for purpose; and aspires to interfaith and international dialogue being recognised as a vital strand in forming positive, outward-looking global relationships.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 23, DUP 2, Independent 2, Conservative 1.