Scotland’s 5 key EU interests that must be protected

Today Nicola Sturgeon delivered a speech setting out the five key Scottish interests that must be protected after Scotland voted overwhelmingly in favour of remaining in the EU.

Here’s a quick summary of the five key interests.

  • Our democratic interest. Scotland voted to remain – by a 24 point margin. Our voice must be heard. 
  • Our economic interest. Our access to a single market of 500 million people, funding for our farmers and universities, and the ability to travel anywhere within the EU are all vital for jobs and our economy.
  • Our interest in social protection. Scotland benefits from the core rights and protections for workers guaranteed by the EU – like paid holidays, maternity leave, limits to working hours, and health and safety protections. A UK government outside of the single market could roll back rights and protections that we take for granted.
  • Our interest in solidarity. The EU brings independent countries together to protect our security and address big global challenges. EU initiatives also give our young people the chance to study in other countries and deepen their understanding of different countries.
  • Influence. Scotland must be able to shape the rules of the single market as well as abiding by them.

Read the full speech here.