Local MSP John Lamont has today repeated his assertion that only the Scottish Conservatives can stand up for Scotland’s place in the UK following comments by former Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg that there is now a “compelling case” for independence.
The former Lib Dem leader and deputy prime minister told journalists in London that it would be “very difficult” for Unionists to argue against separation in the wake of the Brexit vote.
Local MSP John Lamont, who was a strong voice for the Better Together campaign during the 2014 referendum, said Lib Dems should disown Mr Clegg’s comments.
The Scottish Conservatives have resolutely backed the Union as Labour and Lib Dems have softened their position since Scots voted against the break-up of the UK.
John Lamont MSP said: “People won’t be surprised to hear that Nick Clegg is once again shifting his position – this time on protecting the Union. He’s beginning to sound like a nationalist.
“Liberal Democrat politicians across the Borders should publicly distance themselves from these claims that Brexit somehow improves the case for independence.
“No matter what people’s views are on the Brexit vote, we will not solve any of the problems created by leaving the EU by walking away from our far more successful single market with the rest of the UK. Local businesses certainly do not want any further uncertainty – the constant looming threat of independence is hampering investment and contributing to slow growth.”
John added: “It is bad enough that Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP use every opportunity to foster grievance against the rest of the UK, the last thing we need is the Liberal Democrats now adding fuel to the fire.
“The Scottish Borders overwhelmingly rejected the SNP’s plans for separation and do not want a re-run of the divisive and damaging 2014 referendum. Instead, people want to see a Scottish Government getting on with the job of running the country.”