Debates between Ian Blackford and Ian Paisley during the 2015-2017 Parliament

EU Referendum Rules

Debate between Ian Blackford and Ian Paisley
Monday 5th September 2016

(9 years, 5 months ago)

Westminster Hall
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Ian Blackford Portrait Ian Blackford
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I will try to stick to the terms of the debate today—I am arguing strongly that my primary interest in this case is to protect Scotland’s position within the EU, which I hope gives some succour to those who have argued for the petition. That is our first priority. If, because the UK Government refuse to recognise our position, the only way to protect Scotland’s position is independence, of course we will say to the Scottish people that that is the path that they should be going down.

Ian Paisley Portrait Ian Paisley (North Antrim) (DUP)
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To confirm, for the sake of clarity, the hon. Gentleman wants to have a free and independent Scotland ruled from Brussels.

Ian Blackford Portrait Ian Blackford
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I have a lot of time for the hon. Gentleman, but this is about securing Scotland’s position within Europe—to ensure that Scotland is a destination, that we can fulfil our potential and sustainable economic growth for Scotland. In order to do that—