Fishing deal puts any benefits “at risk”
External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson has welcomed the closer co-operation between the UK and the EU following a series of new agreements but said not involving the Scottish Government in any negotiations was “an affront to devolution”.
In a statement to the Scottish Parliament, Mr Robertson said the removal of obstacles to food and agricultural exports, greater support for energy trading and the UK rejoining the Erasmus exchange scheme for students, were all positive aspects of the UK-EU agreement.
But Mr Robertson criticised the lack of consultation with the Scottish Government on key aspects of the deal, particularly on fishing.
He said: “The Scottish Government welcomes the agreement as it represents long-overdue momentum in rebuilding our relationship with the European Union. But no agreement can deliver the economic, social and security benefits we lost with Brexit in 2020.
“We argued for an ambitious package in the interests of people and businesses across Scotland, and there are some positive indicators here, including the agriculture, food and drink agreement which will reduce market barriers; and enhanced cooperation on energy and climate, and a clear intention to rejoin the Erasmus exchange programme.
“The fact that this agreement – not least on fisheries – was reached without the explicit engagement of the devolved governments on the negotiation detail is not just an affront to devolution, it has put at risk, and will continue to put at risk, the benefits of any commitments for the people of Scotland.”
He added: “We still believe Scotland’s best future lies as an independent country within the European Union but we will engage constructively and positively in the next phase of negotiations.
“We also hope to see the UK Government work collaboratively with devolved governments in developing its priorities – as the EU does with its Member States.”
Tracy Gilbert MP Welcomes UK-EU Deal as Major Win for Edinburgh North and Leith’s Young People and Businesses
Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has welcomed a landmark new agreement between the UK and the European Union.
The Agreement includes:
- Trade Boost for Local Businesses: Red tape is being slashed on food and drink exports, helping local producers and potentially lowering prices for families. British steel exports, important to Scottish industry, are now protected from new EU tariffs, saving the sector millions.
- Opportunities for Young People: Steps have been taken to rejoin the Erasmus programme and launch a new UK-EU youth mobility scheme, which would allow young people to travel, work, and study more freely across Europe.
- Climate and Green Economy Gains: The UK and EU will link their emissions trading schemes, helping British businesses avoid new EU carbon taxes while driving green growth.
- Travel Made Easier: UK holidaymakers will benefit from smoother travel with more access to eGates, while a new “pet passport” system will make it easier for families to bring cats and dogs abroad.
- Safer Communities: New talks will allow access to EU facial recognition databases, enhancing the UK’s ability to track down dangerous criminals and improve border security.
Tracy Gilbert MP said: “After years of uncertainty for people and businesses following EU exit, this UK-EU Agreement struck by our UK Labour Government brings certainty through a closer relationship with the EU. This new deal strengthens security, supports trade, and opens the door to new opportunities for our young people.
“This deal delivers real, practical benefits for Edinburgh North and Leith whether that be reducing regulation helping businesses to export making it easier for families and holidaymakers to travel across Europe everyone will feel a benefit.
“I welcome the commitment to co-operate further on a Youth experience scheme such as a Youth Mobility Scheme. Such a Scheme would open the opportunity local young people have with countries such as Australia and New Zealand to EU countries. I know my constituents support a Youth Mobility Scheme and I will continue to push for progress.”
