EUROPE: HARVIE HIGHLIGHTS UNDEMOCRATIC TRADE DEAL
Patrick Harvie, Green MSP for Glasgow, today used a debate in the Scottish Parliament on Scotland's Voice in the EU to highlight a proposed trade deal that would promote privatisation and reduce scrutiny of industry.
The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) being negotiated between the EU and the US aims to increase global competition, making it easier for big business to lower wages. It also aims to give corporations the ability to sue governments which implement policies that affect profits.
On May 22nd, Scotland goes to the polls to elect 6 MEPs and the Scottish Greens are pushing to secure one of the six seats. Edinburgh councillor Maggie Chapman is the Greens' lead candidate.
Patrick Harvie MSP said:
"The TTIP trade deal being worked on by the EU and the US is undemocratic and threatens to undermine progress in important social and environmental areas. With a stronger voice in the EU an independent Scotland could challenge such profit-driven schemes and instead promote fair pay and an economy that works for all.
"Meantime Scotland's MEPs must reclaim power from the clutches of big business. A Scottish Green MEP would champion this cause. Green colleagues across Europe are already supporting the protection of human rights and workers' rights, and ensuring global corporate interests are held to account."