Scottish Leaders Call for Independence, EU Membership Amid UK Trade Shifts

Scottish political leaders emphasize that Scotland's best future lies in independence combined with rejoining the European Union, highlighting economic stability and closer ties with Europe as crucial amid global volatility and rising far-right threats. Angus Robertson and Lorna Slater stress that EU membership would reduce trade barriers, allow free movement of labor, and sustain businesses and public services, contrasting this with the UK's current position outside the EU and ongoing trade challenges. They also advocate for stronger cooperation with the EU to boost exports, energy collaboration, and cultural exchange programs like Erasmus+. The Scottish Government aims to focus on immediate voter concerns such as the NHS, cost of living, and energy bills rather than divisive topics like gender identity or independence process debates. Meanwhile, economic experts like Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey underscore the importance of maintaining strong EU economic relationships despite Brexit and new trade deals with countries like India and the US. This combined political and economic narrative reflects a broad consensus in Scotland about the strategic benefits of EU integration for future growth and stability.