The Article 50 process explained in 200 words
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On 23 June 2016 people in England and Wales voted to leave the European Union. Scotland voted overwhelmingly to remain.
Here’s the story so far.
Time is now fast running out for the Tories to show how they intend to respect Scotland’s interests. #Brexit pic.twitter.com/huZuW5gP6a
— The SNP (@theSNP) February 1, 2017
The Brexit court case
Before the UK begins to leave the EU, Theresa May must inform the EU. This is the ‘Article 50 process’. Theresa May says this will happen in March.
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The UK Government had to be forced by the Supreme Court to give the UK Parliament a vote before this process begins.
Article 50 Bill in Westminster
The UK Government introduced a Bill that would allow the Article 50 process to start.
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It was railroaded through Westminster at breakneck speed.
.@AlexSalmond puts it brilliantly. Tories are railroading parliamentary scrutiny on one of the biggest decision in 50 years. #Brexit pic.twitter.com/YKjuiUaTyM— Grant Costello (@GrantDCostello) February 6, 2017
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SNP MPs have put forward a series of amendments that would respect Scotland’s remain vote and protect the rights of EU citizens in the UK. Westminster voted these down. Twice.
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And, then the Article 50 Bill passed unamended with Labour’s support.
Making Scotland’s voice heard
The Scottish Parliament voted against the triggering of Article 50.
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But the Tories and Labour still voted the Bill into law on 13 March 2016.
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Scotland will now have a choice of whether to follow the UK to a hard Brexit or to become an independent country.