George: Put Brexit talks on hold

A Paisley MSP is calling on the UK Government to extend the Brexit talks deadline.

George Adam said it is important to avoid a further big economic hit on top of the coronavirus crisis.

He also wants to make sure every effort is being put toward tackling the Covid-19 pandemic.

SNP member George said: “For the Tory government to pursue its plans to impose a hard Brexit on the country, while we are facing a global health emergency, is reckless in the extreme.

“Paisley voted to remain in the EU – just like every local authority in Scotland – and it’s clear that businesses here simply do not have the capacity to prepare for Brexit when they are fighting to survive the impact of the Covid-19 crisis.

“People and businesses in our town wi l l b e understandably concerned about this, so it’s imperative that the UK Government does the responsible thing and requests an extension to the transition period to avoid even more economic and social damage.

“There is still time for the UK Government to change course, listen to the public, and ensure that every effort is put to tackling the coronavirus pandemic.”

The UK has formally left the European Union, but is currently in a “transition period.”

This means it is following EU rules and, therefore, has full access to the European market – which will be vital for the economy when the coronavirus crisis eases.

A two- year extension to this transition period is on offer, but the UK Government is pressing ahead with negotiations.

According to a report by the Chief Economist, the economic impact of the efforts to tackle the coronavirus pandemic could see GDP fall by around a third.