Chamber and committees

An independent Scotland will continue to operate within the common custom union of the EU.

Scotland currently contributes to the Migration Advisory Committee from taxation but services provided are geared to UK Government’s needs. We would use our share of resources to meet Scotland’s needs.

In delivering these functions, an independent Scotland would ensure continuity of services including transition from the current arrangements to which Scotland currently contributes fully through taxes levied in Scotland by the UK Government. An independent Scotland would not simply replicate UK structures but would develop services based on the needs of Scotland, best practice and the views of our stakeholders.

The Scottish Government publication Scotland’s Future: from the Referendum to Independence and a Written Constitution published in February 2013 sets out the Government’s position on the transition from a vote for independence to Scotland’s independence day.

The UK and the Republic of Ireland are not required by the EU to be a part of the Schengen area, and as a part of the Common Travel Area, the same arrangement would apply to an independent Scotland.

Citizenship in an independent Scotland will be based upon an inclusive model, recognising our shared history with the rest of the UK.

The British Overseas Territories can determine their own immigration arrangements and it would be reasonable for them to continue similar arrangements for Scottish citizens and those of the rest of the UK. The Crown Dependencies are part of the Common Travel Area and with Scotland within the Common Travel Area, Scottish citizens would have freedom of movement to these islands.

As a member state of the EU, an independent Scotland would enjoy the full range of rights and responsibilities of EU membership including in relation to the Common Agriculture Policy and Common Fisheries Policy.

Scotland will remain an integral part of the rail network in the British Isles. With the exception of the Caledonian Sleepers, cross border rail services are currently let by the UK Government and the Scottish Ministers are limited to providing advice on the specification of these services. Overall, cross border passenger growth has increased significantly; many of these services are profitable for operators and the UK Government. Additionally, given the economic importance of these routes to both Scotland and the rest of the UK, cross border services would continue to operate in an independent Scotland, and opportunities will arise to ensure these services continue to best meet the needs of the people of Scotland.

As with other comparable countries, an independent Scotland would not expect to be a member of these groups. However, as a member of the EU, Scotland’s interests would be represented at the G8 and G20.

Eligibility for candidacy in Scottish Parliament and Scottish Local Government elections will be similar in an independent Scotland to current eligibility requirements.