Calls for clarity on Scots EU exit funds

The Scottish and Welsh governments have called for more clarity to be issued over funding after Britain leaves the European Union.

Representatives from both devolved administrations are due to meet with Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liz Truss in Cardiff today.

Ahead of the meeting, Scottish finance secretary Derek Mackay and Welsh finance minister Rebecca Evans have asked for more clarity from the UK government on how funding will affect future budgets and public sector pensions among other areas after Brexit. Mr Mackay is hopeful Ms Truss will “take an even handed approach in meeting all costs” ahead of 29 March.

He said: “Funding from the EU supports jobs in Scotland, from major infrastructure projects to sustaining rural communities and delivering research funding for our world-class universities.

“That is why the Scottish Government is determined to defend its hard-won fiscal responsibility and maintain the benefits that EU funding has provided to many sectors and individuals in Scotland.

“With just weeks to go until the planned EU exit day, we remain deeply concerned about the lack of detail regarding replacement arrangements for EU funding streams given their importance to individuals, businesses and communities across Scotland.”