Indyref: Harvie urges progress on legislation
Patrick Harvie MSP, Co-convener of the Scottish Greens, today (9 Jan) welcomed comments from the First Minister that a referendum on Scottish independence "has to be on the table to make sure Scotland is not driven off a hard Brexit cliff edge".
In an interview with STV, the First Minister says there is not going to be a referendum in 2017 but she restates her support for Scotland remaining in the single market.
Patrick Harvie said:
"Given the Tory Government's reckless attitude to the single market, risking Scottish jobs, wages and public services, it is essential that we find a way to respect Scotland's desire to remain part of the European Union.
"The First Minister may have said that there won't be a referendum on independence this year but legislation must be progressed to give Holyrood the option, and it's welcome that the Scottish Government remains committed to keeping it on the table. This cannot be a quiet time ahead for supporters of independence; although the Brexit negotiations will take two years, work must begin now to build support and strengthen our case.
"Greens are committed to developing plans for an independent currency with a Scottish central bank, and our Jobs in the New Economy report outlines how an independent economy could reduce inequality and provide lasting employment and social protections. We're a world away from the referendum of 2014, so we must be ready to offer concrete answers to those No voters who are considering making the journey to Yes.”
Sturgeon rules out holding independence referendum in 2017 (STV)