SNP stand-off talks ‘positive’

UK ministers are ‘positive’ they will strike a deal with the SNP to end the stand-off over key Brexit legislation.

Scottish Secretary David Mundell yesterday insisted the UK Government is nearing agreement with the Scottish Government to end claims the EU Withdrawal Bill is a ‘power grab’ that puts devolution at risk.

During talks in London, a new draft amendment was presented, saying all powers in devolved areas coming back from Brussels will go to Holyrood.

Under the proposals, the Scottish Government would be blocked from immediately using any powers in areas where UK-wide common frameworks are required but not finalised.

Following yesterday’s Joint Ministerial Committee, Mr Mundell said: ‘We’re making progress. We’re not there yet, these are complex negotiations, but I think the UK Government has demonstrated by bringing forward the draft of amendment that we are demonstrating flexibility. We are addressing the concerns both the Scottish Government and the Scottish parliament have raised.

‘What’s very clear from today’s discussions is that the devolved administrations and the UK Government want to reach agreement. We know now what we need to do and the areas we need to further discuss to get to that agreement.

‘So I remain positive we will get an outcome. We can agree an amendment to the EU Withdrawal Bill.’

The Scottish and Welsh administrations have consistently refused to recommend granting legislative consent for the Bill as it stands, claiming it is a Westminster ‘power grab’ that puts devolution at risk.

SNP Brexit Minister Michael Russell said: ‘The clock is ticking on Scotland’s future as we draw ever closer to the UK leaving the EU while there is continuing uncertainty on fundamental and crucial issues.

‘With negotiations between the UK Government and the EU ongoing, it is crucial we have meaningful input into those discussions.

‘With regard to the EU Withdrawal Bill, the fundamental point is that the devolution settlement and the powers of the Scottish parliament cannot be changed unilaterally by the UK Government. What happens to devolved powers must be a matter for Holyrood. The UK Government must recognise that.

‘Progress is being made and we will continue to talk. I will continue to fight for the best deal for Scotland.’