“Transitional arrangements” for Scotland if it gains independence?

 

 

Where the day before yesterday there seemed to be sympathy but something of a rebuff for the SNP from the EU in relation to it remaining a part once the UK – whatever that may be departs, yesterday we had this:

Discussions on transitional arrangements for an independent Scotland to remain in the European Union (EU) after the UK leaves are taking place in Brussels, a former senior adviser to the European Commission (EC) has disclosed.

As the Press Association reports, Dr Kirsty Hughes told MSPs discussions are taking place about putting Scotland in a “transitional holding pen” after Brexit to avoid “an absurd out and then in process”.

There’s more:

She urged MSPs to hold a second independence referendum by summer 2017 at the latest, if it is judged to be in the best interests of Scotland, to allow the EU to start work on these transitional arrangements.

However, she warned the EU “does not want a mini-UK” and said Scotland is unlikely to keep the UK’s “awkward squad” opt-outs of the euro, justice and home affairs and the UK budget rebate.

Some or all of the above may be an issue. A lot depends. But that such views are being articulated publicly…. remarkable.