SNP warns of damage from leaving EU customs union

The SNP has warned that pulling out of the EU customs union would be 'deeply damaging' following reports that Liam Fox is putting Prime Minister Theresa May under pressure to do so.

Nicola Sturgeon said that the move would be a 'terrible decision.' Picture: PA

Nicola Sturgeon has reacted to suggestions that Mr Fox, the Trade Secretary, favours such a move tweeting that it would be a “terrible decision”.

Her SNP colleague Joan McAlpine has argued that it would harm Scottish businesses’ ability to trade.

Dr Fox wants maximum freedom to negotiate new global trade deals and is determined that the UK should break out of the EU framework,

But the SNP said exiting the customs union would jeopardise the free movement of goods.

Ms McAlpine said: “Pulling the UK out of the customs union would be a deeply damaging step – adding costs and inhibiting the ability of Scots businesses to trade.”