Scottish Secretary ‘making representations’ for fans refused entry to US

The Scottish Secretary has said he is “making representations” on behalf of Scottish fans who were reportedly refused entry to America for the World Cup.

Douglas Alexander has pledged to Scotland football fans that the UK Government is working to resolve cases for those who had their Electronic System of Travel Authorisation (ESTA) permit revoked.

The issues arose less than a week before the country plays Haiti in Boston.

An ESTA is usually required for UK citizens without a visa going to the US for up to 90 days.

Some members of the Tartan Army reported having their ESTAs revoked at the last minute, leading to some seeking emergency appointments with the US Embassy in London.

Mr Alexander said he has spoken to the British ambassador to the United States who is in touch with US authorities.

He said: “As soon as this issue became apparent last Monday I spoke to the Minister for North America, and we have initiated work across government to ensure we are doing everything we can to help.

“I have also spoken to the British ambassador to the United States today, who is in touch with the US authorities. Of course, visa and entry requirements are a matter for the United States, but I can assure fans that I am making representations on behalf of those affected to ensure their cases are resolved as quickly as possible.

“Thousands of members of the Tartan Army have gone through the US visa system successfully, but we will continue to work with the US authorities to help resolve this issue as quickly as possible. After 28 long years, it’s understandable why so many Scotland fans want to be able to cheer on Steve Clarke’s squad in person.”

Last week, the BBC reported acting assistant secretary of homeland security Lauren Bis as saying the tightening of ESTAs is because “the Trump administration is enforcing immigration laws”.

“Under the Visa Waiver Program, all ESTA applications are continuously vetted against law enforcement and security databases,” she said.

“Travellers must provide complete and truthful information, including all criminal history.”

She said the “failure to disclose arrests or convictions constitutes misrepresentation” and could lead to “ESTA denial, revocation, or a permanent bar from entering the United States”.