Philippa hits out at Brexit
Article 50 vote is ‘ to the detriment’
The country’s future was hotly debated by MPs at Westminster last week.
Parliament voted to enact Article 50, triggering the process of the United Kingdom leaving the European Union.
Central Ayrshire MP Philippa Whitford voted against the bill in a vain attempt to remain in the EU while Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock member Corri Wilson was absent due to illness.
Dr Whitford spoke to the House of Commons during the debate, warning against the so- called ‘ Hard Brexit’ – with all ties to the EU cut – being pursued by some in government.
Dr Whitford said: “Of course, Scotland voted to remain in the EU but faces being dragged out with all the detrimental consequences it will entail.
“The Scottish Government was the first to come forward with a plan in response to the Brexit vote - ‘ Scotland’s Place in Europe’.
“The UK Government still do not appear to have given this compromise option any serious consideration.
“The SNP will continue to lead the charge against a hard Brexit and fight for the future our constituents voted for.
“We don’t want to veto England and Wales leaving the European Union, we just don’t want Scotland dragged out with them.”
The former surgeon also highlighted benefits of EU membership which she believes are rarely highlighted, including the European Health Insurance Card and the European Medicines Agency drug licensing, part of the largest research network in the world.
While the United Kingdom voted 51.9 per cent to 48.1 per cent to leave the European Union, South Ayrshire voted strongly in favour of the EU with 36,265 voting to remain and 25,241 voting to leave.
Ms Wilson failed to respond to a request for comment from the Ayrshire Post, but a spokesperson for the SNP in Westminster confirmed she had missed the crucial vote due to illness – but would have voted against triggering Article 50 had she been in the chamber.