Scotland may be ‘bridge’ between EU and the UK

Scots urged to reject ‘lies and divisions’ of populists and back independence

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will today announce plans to turn Scotland into a “bridge” between the UK and the EU.

In her address to the SNP party conference in Aberdeen this afternoon, Ms Sturgeon will say the country could become a “magnet for investment” if it becomes independent after Brexit.

The first minister will tell delegates: “Scotland is rich enough, strong enough and big enough to take our place among the proud, independent nations of the world, but we must reject a post-brexit race to the bottom and embrace instead a race to join the top tier of independent nations.”

Scotland will have a unique advantage, she will say.

“We will be in the EU single market and the closest neighbour to our friends in the rest of the UK – a bridge between the EU and the UK, making our country a magnet for global investment.”

Her speech will conclude a three-day gathering which has found the party in buoyant mood.

During his speech yesterday, finance secretary Derek Mackay praised the work the Scottish Government had done in securing the future of the Michelin plant in Dundee and the ongoing efforts to secure work at Bifab in Fife.

He said: “When we have been faced with companies at risk of closure we will always do what we can to ensure the best possible outcome for the workforce and the economy.

“At Bifab we are doing everything in our power to ensure it wins work from the offshore wind developments in Scotland’s seas. But the power to connect consents with onshore jobs remains at Westminster, and what do they choose to do? Nothing.

“When Michelin announced the closure of their tyre factory in Dundee we convinced them to stay in the city through the Michelin Dundee Innovation Parc – a joint venture between Michelin, Dundee City Council and Scottish Enterprise, that will focus on renewables, sustainable mobility and the circular economy.”

In his address, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said Scots were choosing to reject the “lies and division” of populists in favour of backing independence.

Delivering a rebuke to US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Mr Swinney said the campaign for independence would walk a road of tolerance and persuasion in winning over “no” voters.

“While we deride their behaviour, we must learn the lessons of the victories of Trump and Johnson,” said Mr Swinney.

“They chose – and still choose – the gutter and it will be their downfall. Winning on their terms is never worth it.

“Their road does not lead to a better nation. Their road leads to ruin and we will never walk that road. Instead, we will walk the road of tolerance, persuasion, debate and dialogue.”

Scottish Conservative shadow finance secretary Murdo Fraser said the SNP’S economic case for independence had never been weaker.

“The Scottish Government should focus on working with its Westminster counterparts to make a success of Brexit, and ensure Scotland has a prosperous future at the heart of the UK,” he said.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie MSP said an independent Scotland would have to introduce significant cuts or tax rises and accused the first minister of opening the door to a hard border between England and Scotland.