Meeting of the Parliament 18 September 2024
We are not in Government right now, but we certainly have a clearer road map back towards European integration than the SNP does. Remain voters know that, and the SNP knows that trying to join the European Union as an independent country would take years—and “austerity on stilts”. Those are not my words—it was the SNP’s economic growth commission that pointed that out. When we have that reality, as we did with Brexit, there are sacrifices and barriers. Remainers understand that, too.
For too long, we have talked about independence while matters of great importance to the people in this country idle. Lib Dems believe in togetherness, internationalism and Scotland’s place in a reformed and federal United Kingdom. I am glad that, 10 years ago, we voted to remain in this family of nations.
Let this afternoon be the very last time that we, in this chamber, indulge the failing Government in its obsession and fanaticism.
I move amendment S6M-14524.2, to leave out from “, and further agrees” to end and insert:
“by focusing on what really matters to the people of Scotland, including fixing the NHS to ensure fast access to treatment, GPs, dentists and world-class mental health services, lifting up Scottish education, delivering a fair deal for carers, stopping sewage being dumped in rivers and growing Scotland’s economy.”
15:39Motions, questions or amendments mentioned by their reference code.