Scotlands role in Brexit

[Underparmummy]

The plot thickens as TM has vowed to protect the UK union and sort that out before triggering article 50. could contradict David Davis statement on Brexit timings?

I think that is very, very sensible even if it delays moving forwards. I don't think we can take the risk of splitting the UK up.

‏@faisalislam has some very interesting transcripts from NS and TM today if you want to look them up on twitter.

Yes, they are interesting. Not quite on the same hymn sheet re a referendum!

I think TM is making a big statement saying no article 50 trigger until UK united.

I think so too.
TM: "I have already said that I won't be triggering Article 50 until I think that we have a UK approach and objectives for negotiations - I think it is important that we establish that before we trigger Article 50."

What does that mean then? Article 50 can't be invoked because scotland would separate from the UK?

I suspect "consultation" or agreement is a bit like the formal "consultation" before redundancies: a process to go through but a extemely slim chance of changing anything meaningful.

Put it this way, I'm not holding my breath

....posted too soon

But I do think that Scotland (probably more than NI, as there is a greater majority in the parliament) can - and may well choose to do so - play a "blocking" role: refusing to grant Sewel motions to facilitate UK wide legislation which includes devolved issues. They could choose to be really awkward.

I wouldn't underestimate Nicola Sturgeon. I don't think she'll be walked over. Scotland voted remain and I think she'd be willing to go for a second referendum over this. And Martin McGuinness has been quiet up until now. I don't think TM can just ignore NI, Gibraltar and Scotland and plough ahead regardless.
The whole thing is an unholy mess.

The problem for the gov is it requires a mandate from parliament for whatever EU exit strategy it comes up with. If there is no mandate it may need to call a General Election.