Sarwar: Scottish Labour government would 'work hand in hand' with EU

A Scottish Labour government would work “hand in hand” with the EU, Anas Sarwar has said.

The party leader is in Germany this week, where he will meet with members of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) on Friday.

Ahead of the visit, he touted the importance of a close relationship with European nations, as he backed the UK Labour Party’s efforts to “reset” the relationship with the trading bloc.

The party, however, has rejected calls from opposition parties to seek to return to the single market or customs union.

“Since coming to power just over 100 days ago, the UK Labour Government has worked tirelessly to reset our relationship with our European neighbours,” Sarwar said.

“Scotland has so much to offer Europe – from world-class research facilities to Scottish whisky and other world-renowned brands.

“That’s why I want to work with fellow social democrats and democratic socialists so that we can reset our relationship and ensure that Scotland’s economy, workers and researchers benefit from a strong relationship with our European friends.

“Scottish Labour is serious about resetting the relationship with the EU and the benefits that it could bring to Scotland.

“A Scottish Labour Government at Holyrood would work hand-in-hand with the UK Government and with the EU to deliver for Scotland.

“Brand Scotland has immense economic and social potential.

“I am committed to working with our European friends, the UK Government and the Scotland office to ensure that Scotland benefits from a strong relationship with Europe.”