The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
‘No turning back’
May triggers Article 50 to take UK out of EU ‘Wemiss you already’ – EU chief ‘Independence inevitable ’ – SNP
Theresa May declared there could be “no turning back” as she hailed the formal launch of Brexit negotiations nine months after the UK voted to leave the European Union.
The prime minister called the handover of the official letter triggering Article 50 a “great national moment”.
But she also warned the process would require “a great national effort” as she urged people and parties to “come together”.
Sir Tim Barrow, British ambassador to the EU, delivered the correspondence confirming the UK’s intention to leave just before 12.30pm.
Minutes after European Council president Donald Tusk confirmed receipt, Mrs May rose in the Commons to share the news with MPs. The Tory leader said she chose to “believe in Britain and that our best days lie ahead”. She added: “Leaving the EU presents us with a unique opportunity. It is this generation’s chance to shape a brighter future for our country.” ButMr Tusk said it was not “a happy day” for him or theEU, adding:“We already miss you. Thank you and goodbye.”
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said that everyone had an interest in a good deal.
He challenged the prime minister to deliver a trade agreement that would bring the same benefits as current membership of the single market.
And he insisted that to unite the country, MrsMay had to “listen to, consult and represent” everyone – not just the “hard-line Tory ideologues”.
He added: “More than ever, Britain needs a government that will deliver for the whole country, not just thefew– andthat is the ultimate test of the Brexit deal that the prime minister must now secure.”
SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson said on this issue theUKwas “not a united kingdom”, pointing to the 62% Remain vote in Scotland.
And he urged the prime minister to “respect the differences” around the country, warning she would make Scottish independence “inevitable” otherwise.
Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron accused Mrs May of “twisting the will of the people” and “leaping into the abyss without any idea of where our country will end up”.
“It is this generation’s chance to shape a brighter future for our country”