It’s all about Brexit – don’t get distracted by independence

In post-Brexit Scotland there is a real opportunity to set a new vision and new settlement more akin to home rule in the UK, more like a federal union that is part of a revised UK constitutional settlement while retaining the best aspects of a positive relationship with Europe.

Yet to date, the SNP talk only of the benefits of being in Europe and the disadvantages of being in the UK while the Tories talk only of the benefits of being in the UK and disadvantages of being in Europe. So Scotland is in danger of being stuck for years trapped between these two polar opposites.

Both are playing a dangerous game, and it is becoming clear that neither are the wiser as to what to do. The UK is a sovereign state in Brexit turmoil and in Scotland we must not allow a second referendum to continue to be the distraction that creates divisions and removes our focus from finding the best Brexit deal.

It is crucial all parties in Scotland focus the debate on Brexit, setting forth a case to protect employment rights, pay and pensions and the role of trade unions.

It is essential in this time of turmoil, that in Scotland we have an inclusive discussion about the big issues and challenges for our country moving forward, and we should not be distracted by arguments about a second referendum. It would be sheer madness to go for a second referendum without knowing the terms of Brexit, and it would be a betrayal of

“Scotland is in danger of being stuck between these opposites”

Scotland to put a second referendum ahead of getting the best Brexit deal for Scotland.

Our responsibility is to find a common purpose that we can unite around and start building a positive future and if we don’t – Scotland’s future generations will suffer.