Brain family to meet with MPs over deportation battle

A FAMILY fighting deportation from the UK is to give evidence to a committee of MPs about its experience of the immigration system.

The Brain family meet with Nicola Sturgeon in May. Picture: PA

Members of the Scottish Affairs Committee will hear from Kathryn and Gregg Brain, who moved from Australia to Dingwall in the Scottish Highlands with their son Lachlan in 2011.

The family’s campaign to remain in the country following the withdrawal of the post-study work visa has made headlines around the world.

The committee is visiting the Isle of Skye as part of an inquiry into the demography of Scotland and the implications for devolution.

A public evidence session held at Sabhal Mor Ostaig will focus on the challenges faced by people living in rural communities.

• READ MORE - Highland family to stay until August but ‘not allowed to work’

Speaking before the session, SNP committee chair Pete Wishart MP, said: “I am delighted to be coming to Skye, to meet the people who live here and understand the challenges they face.

“It is pleasing that the last few decades have seen steady population growth on the island. However, it is important that we keep investigating policies that enable inhabitants to live fulfilled lives and attract others to move here.

“I am especially pleased to be hearing from Gregg and Kathryn Brain. During an inquiry such as this it is easy to focus on cold, hard statistics.

“However, it is equally valuable to hear about the real experiences of those involved in the immigration system, to understand what attracted them to Scotland and hear the challenges they are facing in staying here.”