Sturgeon demands ‘meaningful’ talks before decision on Brexit
Nicola Sturgeon has demanded “urgent and meaningful” discussion with the devolved administrations on the direction of the Brexit negotiations.
Scotland’s First Minister has written to Theresa May to say the Scottish Government must be able to make the case for staying in the EU single market and customs union ahead crucial meetings of the UK Government’s Brexit “war cabinet” this week.
Ms Sturgeon complained that engagement had fallen “far short” of the ‘full involvement’ offered to devolved administrations, and said it “cannot be right” that Brexit was being shaped “without due regard” to the other nations of the UK, in breach of the terms of the Joint Ministerial Committee.
Home Secretary Amber Rudd said he “hopes” the Government will set out what it wants from Brexit “within the next few weeks” following a warning from Brussels that time is running out.
Theresa May yesterday dodged questions about rising Tory tensions on Brexit after pro-eu Tory MP Anna Soubry called on her to “sling out” hard-line Leavers. Ms Soubry threatened to quit the party if people like Jacob Rees-mogg “take over”.
The Prime minister refused to engage when asked if she would like Mr Rees-mogg and Boris Johnson to “pipe down”, insisting her party is focused on “one very clear act” of leaving the European Union.