For immediate response:
LOCAL MSP URGES BREXIT EXTENSION TO PROTECT JOBS
Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has called on the UK government to extend the Brexit transition period in light of coronavirus – with new analysis showing billions of pounds could be wiped from the Scottish economy.
The transition arrangements currently keep the UK close to the EU and can be extended for two years – beyond 31 December – if the UK Government asks for an extension by the end of this month.
A new study from the Scottish Government says if an extension is not agreed, Scottish GDP could be up to 1.1% lower after two years. The cumulative loss of economic activity from leaving the EU would be up to £3 billion over those two years, on top of the devastating effects of the Covid-19 outbreak.
The Scottish and Welsh Governments, and the Northern Irish Assembly have all called for the transition period to be extended.
Commenting, Clare Haughey MSP said:
“Coronavirus is causing enormous economic disruption and people across Rutherglen and Cambuslang expect government to be focused on protecting public health and the Scottish economy.
“It would be an act of extraordinary recklessness for the UK government to allow us to crash out of the transition period at the end of this year.
“Regardless of your opinion on Brexit or Scottish independence, it makes no sense to leave the European single market at precisely the moment we need stability.
“Businesses in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are focused on securing their future – they should not be forced to prepare for Brexit on top of dealing with such a devastating pandemic.”
ENDS
Notes:
COVID-19: The Case for Extending the Brexit Transition Period:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/covid-19-case-extending-brexit-transition-period/
Scottish Government calling for an extension:
https://news.gov.scot/news/brexit
Welsh Government calling for an extension:
https://gov.wales/written-statement-joint-ministerial-committee-eu-negotiations-3
Northern Irish Assembly calling for an extension:
Date published: 4th June 2020
Clare Haughey MSP 