The Scottish Seafood Association has warned of the risk to Scotland’s economy under SNP plans for a hard border with England.
The Scottish Mail on Sunday reports that the possibility of customs checks and more uncertainty has been described as ‘the last thing we need’.
The seafood industry contributes around £1billion to the Scottish economy. Sixty per cent of Scotland’s export trade is with the rest of the UK, dwarfing trade with the EU.
The Scottish Mail on Sunday also reports that the Road Haulage Association has said ‘frictionless movement of goods’ is vital for trade.
Pamela Nash, chief executive of Scotland in Union, said:
“A hard border with England would be catastrophic for Scotland’s economy, putting jobs and livelihoods at risk.
“Our food and drink sector, particularly seafood, is a major success story that the SNP is willing to sacrifice in its reckless and relentless pursuit of Scexit.
“With 60 per cent of our trade with the rest of the UK, it is astonishing that the SNP is willing to put Scottish businesses at risk like this.
“As well as the dire economic consequences, Nicola Sturgeon is also prepared to erect a hard border between families, friends and neighbours.
“Nationalism is always about dividing people, but our economy relies on breaking down barriers.
“The only way to avoid a hard border is to remain in the UK, with a positive future for Scotland where we share economic prosperity and maintain our social and cultural bonds.”
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