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EUROPEAN immigrants are a bigger boost to the Scottish economy than people born here according to a new report that makes a mockery of anti-EU sentiment.

The Scottish Government study revealed migrants from the European Economic Area “have made a more positive fiscal contribution” than both British people and those from the rest of the world.

Anti-Brexit politicians said the survey showed the value of the EU’s freedom of movement policy.

SNP Europe Minister Alasdair Allan said: “These statistics and the impact report confirm the long-standing view of the Scottish Government that our migrant workforce makes positive contributions to our economy and local communities.

“Many sectors of the Scottish economy are reliant on migrant labour, which helps meet demand for labour, and also address skills shortages.

“It is extremely important that we remain part of the European family, so that we can continue to have access to the European Single Market, and access to the free movement of people who may wish to live and work here. Our priority is to protect all of Scotland’s interests and we are considering all possible steps to ensure Scotland’s continuing relationship with the EU.”

(Image: 2016 Getty Images)

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale added: “This destroys the myth that has been exploited by Tory and UKIP xenophobia about the contribution migrants make to our country.

“This report highlights why it so vital we stay a tolerant, open and compassionate country. Those who have come to live in Scotland have enriched our communities and strengthened public services.

“There is a job now for those of us who stand against the isolationism of hard right Brexiteers to make the case for why immigration has made out country a better place and reports like this will play an important role in that.”

The most recent census showed almost 370,000 people from outside the UK were living in Scotland, making up seven per cent of the country’s population.

Almost two thirds of migrants arrived in Scotland in the 10 years leading up to the 2011 census.