SNP MSP URGES CONSTRUCTIVE RELATIONS WITH EUROPE

SNP MSP URGES CONSTRUCTIVE RELATIONS WITH EUROPE

Dr. Ian McKee MSP has expressed concern at the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition government deal on European relations.

SNP MSP for the Lothians Dr McKee said:

"The Con-Lib agreed position on Europe will be a blow to pro-Europeans who believed the Liberal Democrats were a pro-Europe party.

"Clearly the Lib Dem's hunger for government led them to ignore their principles and policies and leave their electorate behind.

"It's crucial that the UK continues to play a positive role in the European Union.

"The Tories have an anti-European record, but it's not by picking fights with Europe that you defend the UK's interests.

"Over the past years Scottish Ministers have represented the UK in EU delegations in a positive and constructive manner.

"The new UK government should ensure that Scottish Ministers are invited to participate in UK policy formulation and in UK delegations to the European Union, particularly on issues such as fishing where Scotland has both a very strong interest and considerable expertise.

"The SNP will continue to argue that the most logical future for Scotland is as an equal player at the EU top table, alongside other European nations."