Gil Paterson MSP: 'Leaving EU puts Scots at mercy of most anti-working class Tory politicians'

MEMBERSHIP of the European Union is in Clydebank, Milngavie and the whole of Scotland’s best interests, Gil Paterson writes.
While admittedly it needs reforms, the EU is main destination for Scotland’s international exports.
As citizens of the EU we are able to travel freely throughout Europe. Should we leave, we risk ending that freedom of work, study and travel without the need for visas.
I want Scotland to have a louder voice in Europe and an increase contribution to EU policy making.
Rather than being a voice on the outside we should persist and be a voice for change within the EU.
Leaving the EU puts the people of Scotland at the mercy of Britain’s most anti-working class politicians.
When it comes to workers’ rights, immigration and welfare their attitude is appalling. The EU is a welcomed safeguard.
Top Tory Boris Johnson has used the referendum campaign as a springboard for his political career. It is now clear he will be the next Prime Minister when David Cameron is forced to resign after a vote for Brexit.
Key players like Nigel Farage have risen to prominence and will only be defeated with a strong vote to remain in. He and his associates have fanned the flames of fear against foreign people living and working in the UK to their own advantage.
In the increasingly likely event Scotland votes to remain inside the EU and the rest of the UK votes to leave, we could be looking at a boost for Scottish independence.
I am highly supportive of another referendum for Scotland’s membership of the UK if we are pulled out of the EU.
I do not want to see hard working people from across Europe deported by the anti-immigration policies underpinning the leave campaign. Getting rid of Europeans living and working here will not solve problems in our society.
If we leave we must prepare for the very real prospect that Scots working and living across the EU will be sent home against their will.
I understand the anger people feel against the tough times we live in but breaking from the European family is not the answer.
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