New economic impact analysis by the Scottish Government has confirmed that the best way to protect the local economy and household incomes in Lanark and Hamilton East is through Scotland remaining in the Single Market and Customs Union. 

Failure by the Tory government to secure a Brexit deal would see Scotland take a £12.7 billion economic hit, equivalent to £2,300 per year for each person in Lanark and Hamilton East. The analysis also shows that a ‘Canada-type’ deal with the EU, with limited access to the Single Market, would still leave people £1,610 worse off per head.

Other key findings show that remaining in the Single Market could create new opportunities for the local economy in Lanark and Hamilton East to flourish, and that continued freedom of movement is required to support economic growth. Figures also show that EU citizens currently working in Lanark and Hamilton East currently contribute an average of £10,400 in tax revenues.

Commenting, Angela Crawley MP said:

“The best way to protect the economy and jobs in Lanark and Hamilton East is to ensure that Scotland remains within the European Single Market and Customs Union.

“This latest analysis by the Scottish Government shows just how important that is for people living in my constituency – who would be left £2,300 worse off in the result of a hard Brexit scenario that the Tories seem to be on course for.

“The Tories must come clean about why their party is intent on pursuing a damaging Brexit when the facts show just how harmful it will be for families living in Lanark and Hamilton East.

“Labour’s position is becoming increasingly inexcusable. Jeremy Corbyn needs to come off the fence and show that he is willing to stand up for jobs by backing our calls to remain in the single market.

“People in my constituency voted decisively to remain in the European Union. We’re almost two years on from the vote and they UK government has failed to provide certainty for businesses and our public services which rely on free trade and free movement with the rest of the EU.

“The decisions taken over the coming months will be absolutely vital for jobs and the future of the local economy in my constituency. Failing to back Scotland’s continued place in Europe would have serious consequences and would be an absolute tragedy for future generations.”