Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland seek break from Britain and a return to the EU

Pro-independence parties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, through which they commit to strengthening cooperation and the right of peoples to self-determination.

The agreement was signed by the Scottish National Party (SNP), Plaid Cymru and Sinn Féin. The document emphasizes that Scotland, Wales and Ireland have different histories, identities and political traditions, but that each of these nations must have the right to determine its own future through democratic means.

The parties declare that they aim to work together for greater political ambition, economic opportunity and a stronger voice in determining the future of the peoples they represent.

The memorandum says the political landscape in the British Isles is changing and that, for the first time, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have leaders who are committed to independence from the United Kingdom.

“Westminster’s time is coming to an end,” the document states, with the parties arguing that a better alternative exists: nations cooperating as equals, sharing ideas and expertise and building relationships on mutual respect and common interests.

Economy, energy and the EU

The cooperation will focus on several areas, including:

• A stronger and fairer economy, with policies for job creation and reducing inequality.
• Developing energy resources, particularly renewable energy, with the aim of lowering bills for families and businesses.
• European and international cooperation.

The three parties describe Brexit as a factor that has harmed economies and limited opportunities for their citizens.

“Europe is our common home, and we believe the future of our nations belongs in the European Union,” the memorandum says.

The parties also commit to working to strengthen relations with Europe and create new opportunities for trade, investment, culture and cooperation.

At the end of the document, it is emphasized that no Westminster government has the right to block democracy or prevent peoples from deciding their own future.

However, the parties acknowledge that they hold different constitutional positions and that each nation will determine its future in its own way and in its own time.