Glasgow hostility down to job fears

Scottish people are more tolerant of asylum seekers than the English but still show negative attitudes towards them, according to new research.

Many Scots supported the principle of asylum and welcomed “genuine” asylum seekers, said the study by the Institute for Public Policy Research. But most people interviewed in Glasgow – where 15 per cent of all asylum seekers supported in the UK live – were “extremely hostile” towards them, mainly due to the perceived impact they have on jobs and housing.

Prejudice was greatest in more disadvantaged areas, where many asylum seekers have been housed.

To combat this, researchers said Glasgow Council should develop integration initiatives to increase interaction between communities.

The report, funded by the Scottish Refugee Council, was launched to mark World Refugee Day last week.