Former senior Labour MEP, David Martin, said that closer EU links are “critical to our economy and security and to protection our way of life from political extremism”.
The European Movement in Scotland (EMiS), which advocates for the UK to somehow rescind Brexit, has written to all Labour Party MPs and MSPs in Scotland urging them to put pressure on the incoming Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, so that he continues Sir Keir Starmer’s policy of putting “Britain at the heart of Europe”.
In a speech in London on 10 May, Sir Keir Starmer said: “My Labour Government is delivering on our promise to reset our relationship and put Britain at the heart of Europe. Together we will tackle the cost of living, boost jobs and create opportunities for young people.”
EMiS says in its letter to MPs and MEPs, “Our view is that it is of the most fundamental importance that Mr Burnham not only continues the process of reengagement with the EU but also accelerates and deepens it.”
David Martin was the longest serving Labour Member at the European Parliament, and is President of the European Movement in Scotland, says Burnham will become Prime Minister at a time of great global instability.
He said: “Andy Burnham cannot afford to ignore the opportunities offered by ever-closer ties with the EU. There are simply no other options available. He must move quickly. The stronger the economy of our continent the more we will be able to raise standards of living, invest in public services and build our defences against the enemies of democracy, at home and abroad.
“Closer EU links are critical to our economy and security and to protecting our way of life from political extremism,” says David Martin.
In its letter to MPs and MEPs, EMiS states: “We are at a moment of enormous historical importance. A successful Burnham government is critical to our economy and stability and to holding off malign domestic and foreign forces that threaten our way of life. Success will come sooner by increasingly embedding the UK with the economic and political powerhouse that is the EU.
“May we encourage you to let Mr Burnham know that support in Scotland for ever-closer ties with the EU currently stands at over 70%. We hope Mr Burnham listens to Scotland and that his government continues the Starmer administration’s approach to the EU, in words and action.”
