For immediate release:
NO-DEAL BREXIT WILL HAVE DRAMATIC IMPACT ON SOUTH LANARKSHIRE
The Scottish Government has warned that a no-deal Brexit would hammer Scotland’s economy, with national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) predicted to fall by up to 7%.
The Chief Economic Advisor to Scotland reports that a no-deal Brexit has the potential to push the Scottish economy into recession, with unemployment rising and trade and investment disrupted. If prolonged, the shock of Scotland’s departure from the EU could lead to significant structural change in the economy.
The report warns that South Lanarkshire will face economic shock and possible job losses, noting that 15% – 19% of the total workforce in area will be exposed to economic damage from a no-deal Brexit.
Previous research has already shown the damage of the Tories’ proposed Brexit deal, which would see a 6% fall in GDP by 2031, costing each person across South Lanarkshire £1,600.
Commenting, Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey said:
“These new figures are yet another warning that a no-deal Brexit would be devastating for communities in Rutherglen and Cambuslang.
“A no-deal Brexit is not inevitable – but we know that Theresa May’s deal is dead in the water, with many in her own party refusing to accept it. The Scottish Government has fought tooth and nail to seek an extension to the Article 50 process, and find compromise to protect Scotland’s interests.
“But Scotland is being ignored by Westminster and it’s no wonder people have completely lost trust in the UK Government.
“We need to stop the clock on Brexit, rule out no deal, which would cause economic damage locally, and prevent the UK Government dragging Scotland out of the EU against our will.”
ENDS
Notes:
‘No Deal Brexit – Economic Implications for Scotland’ report, which includes the South Lanarkshire statistics, can be found on the link below:
https://news.gov.scot/resources/no-deal-brexit-economic-implications-for-scotland
“6% fall in GDP by 2031, costing each person across South Lanarkshire £1,600”:
Date published: 25th February 2019
Clare Haughey MSP 