Swinney orders officials to help Tartan Army Esta row members reach World Cup

John Swinney has told Scottish Government officials to help Tartan Army members denied clearance for the USA.

Scotland fans are preparing to travel to the USA to watch the men’s national team compete in the World Cup for the first time in almost 30 years.

In recent days, stories emerged of members whose Esta clearance was first approved by US authorities, and then cancelled, removing their ability to travel into America.

The decisions come after members spent large sums on tickets, flights and accommodation.

Now First Minister John Swinney has said he has asked Scottish Government officials to try to help.

Swinney said information about the cancelled permits “has not been shared with the Scottish Government”.

However, he told backbench FMQs that the status of applications “may change” if new information emerges after an initial decision has been made.

Swinney said: “Unfortunately, in such cases detailed explanations are not always provided to applicants.

“I am aware that the United States embassy has issued advice to individuals affected by Esta refusals indicating that they may apply for a visa through the Fifa Pass system.

“I have asked officials to convey a hope that they can resolve this so that Scotland’s fans do not miss out.

“I have asked for specific representations and engagement to be taken forward with the Consul General of the United States in Scotland, and that has been undertaken.

“We will do all that we can to help out to resolve these issues.”

The comments followed a question by SNP backbencher Fulton MacGregor, who said constituents from his Coatbridge and Chryston seat were amongst those preparing to fly out.

He said many Tartan Army members now face having to “jump through new hoops, or even travel for emergency appointments at the US Embassy in London” to try to resolve the visa problem.

Swinney is amongst four Scottish Government figures due to attend the World Cup. The others are Stephen Flynn, Maree Todd and Alison Thewliss.