‘A more united nation is the over-arching goal’

Yesterday will undoubtedly go down as one of the most momentous days in the history of our country, as the prime minister officially triggered Article 50 to start the process of us leaving the European Union.

Like many Scots, I voted to remain, but, as a democrat, I respect the result of the vote last June and now want to see us make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.

One of these is the opportunity to forge a more global Britain; one that remains a close ally of Europe, but one that now looks beyond in order to build new relations around the world.

Whilst we are leaving the European Union, we are not leaving Europe. Let there be no doubt we want the European Union to succeed after we leave.

In addition to a more global nation, I also want to see this process create a more united nation. The SNP’s continued push for another unwanted and unnecessary referendum on Scottish independence once again threatens to divide our country.

As these negotiations begin, it is more important than ever that we come together as a nation, rather than pull apart. The most effective way of achieving the best possible outcome for Scotland and the United Kingdom in these negotiations is to work together, and that is exactly what the prime minister is hoping to do.

Her clear, stated plan aims to get the right deal for Britain abroad as well as a better deal for ordinary, working people at home. At its heart it has one over-arching goal: to build a more united nation.

A more united nation means working actively to bring people and communities together by promoting policies which support integration and social cohesion. That means fully respecting, and indeed strengthening, the devolution settlements, not only at Holyrood but in Stormont and Cardiff as well. It also means never allowing our union to become looser and weaker, or our people to drift apart.

No-one doubts the negotiations that will play out over the coming months and years will be challenging.

However, I believe in our strength as a United Kingdom, and when this great union sets its mind on something and works together, we are an unstoppable force.

I am confident the UK Government will strengthen and protect the precious union of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through whatever deal is arranged.