Stone raises urgent case in Parliament after constituent denied travel ahead of World Cup

Jamie Stone, MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, has requested urgent action in Westminster over constituent blocked from travelling to FIFA World Cup

This morning in Scotland Office Questions, Mr Stone raised urgent concerns about his constituent, Kenny Smith, who faces missing the FIFA World Cup after his ESTA authorisation was revoked by US authorities without explanation.

Mr Smith, who has a clear record of lawful travel to the United States and no criminal record, had previously entered the country last year without issue.

Despite complying in full with the requirements set out, administrative delays now risk preventing him from travelling in time - despite already spending over £10,000 on tickets, travel and accommodation.

With Scotland first match next week, Mr Stone emphasised the immediacy of this issue and asked the Secretary of State for Scotland to intervene and make urgent representations to ensure the case is resolved without further delay.

Responding to Mr Stone, the Secretary of State assured him that he had already been in discussion with Ministers at the Foreign office regarding this issue. He also agreed to escalate Mr Smith’s case personally.

Following the debate, Mr Stone wrote to the Scotland Office to pass on the details of Mr Smith’s case.

Commenting, Mr Stone said:

“Kenny Smith has a clean record, adequate security clearance and a history of lawful US travel. Through no fault of his own he now risks missing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support Scotland in the World Cup.

“When the United States, Canada, and Mexico won the bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they promised an inclusive, unified event. However, in recent weeks we have seen this promise collapse for many fans and players who have been denied entry to the United States weeks, days or even hours before flights depart.

“When individuals are affected by sudden, unexplained administrative decisions, it underscores how important clear processes and mutual trust are in maintaining confidence in the international system.

“Whilst it is well within the powers of US authorities to revoke permission to enter the country, I would like to believe this is being done with reason and not being exercised arbitrarily.

“I have urged the Government to act swiftly and ensure every possible step is taken to resolve Mr Smith’s case. I have written directly to the Scotland Office with his details and have been reassured that the Secretary of State will escalate the matter.”