For immediate release:

ANALYSIS SHOWS SINGLE MARKET ESSENTIAL FOR RUTHERGLEN AND CAMBUSLANG

New economic impact analysis by the Scottish Government has confirmed that the best way to protect the local economy and household incomes in Rutherglen is through Scotland remaining in the Single Market and Customs Union.

Failure by the UK Government to secure a Brexit deal would see Scotland take a £12.7 billion economic hit, equivalent to £2,300 per year for each person in Rutherglen. The analysis also shows that a ‘Canada-type’ deal with the EU, with limited access to the Single Market, would still leave people £1,610 worse off per head.

Other key findings show that remaining in the Single Market could create new opportunities for local economies to flourish, and that continued freedom of movement is required to support economic growth.

Figures show that EU citizens currently working in Scotland contribute an average of £10,400 in tax revenues.

Commenting, Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey said:

“The best way to protect the economy and jobs in Rutherglen is to ensure that Scotland remains within the European Single Market and Customs Union.

“This latest analysis by the Scottish Government shows just how important that is for people living in my constituency – who would be left £2,300 worse off in the result of a hard Brexit scenario that the Tories seem to be on course for.

“People in Rutherglen voted decisively to remain in the European Union, and the decisions taken by the UK Government over the coming months will be vital for jobs and the future of our local economy.

“Failing to back Scotland’s continued place in Europe would have serious consequences and would be an absolute tragedy for future generations.”

ENDS

Notes:

Link to Scotland’s Place in Europe: People, Jobs and Investment: http://www.gov.scot/Resource/0053/00530168.pdf

Date published: 16th January 2018