We need you to help us shape this country’s future

Since the EU referendum many visions of the UK have been set out. The one that has been repeated most often is ‘Global Britain’. That speaks to an international outlook shared by many. But with little detail behind the words.

Today, I will be joined by colleagues Stephen Gethins, Ian Murray and Priti Patel – fellow members of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the House of Commons – to hear how you think that vision should be achieved.

What does it mean for us to be global? Should we just focus local? What are the implications for our membership of international organisations like the UN or World Bank?

What does it mean for our trade, or our universities, like this one in St Andrews? These are the questions on which we’re hoping to hear your thoughts.

From aid to defence, diplomacy to education, we have promoted an engagement with the world but too often we have overlooked what foreign policy is really about – us.

How do we promote the interests of these islands? How do we make sure the values we share can ensure we can trade and travel widely and live safely in our world?

That’s no return to the past of British control but an understanding of how we have a role, alongside others, to share the duty of helping our world prosper. So, what do you think we should focus on?

What role should culture, history, immigration, or education play?

In 2016, one third of exports from Clackmannanshire and Fife were to the EU but two thirds went elsewhere.

Does that change your priorities for a ‘Global Britain’? What does the Foreign Office do for the UK and how is it preparing to meet these challenges on your behalf?

That’s why the Foreign Affairs Committee has come to Scotland. We need your input to represent you in your Parliament. If we’re to make Global Britain a reality, we need to work together across our nations and that starts with listening to those who will shape it – you.

Tom Tugendhat MP is chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee at the House of Commons.

To make Global Britain a reality, we need to work together