Scotland to be at centre of Brexit talks - David Mundell

A UK cabinet secretary is pledging to put 'Scottish voices and interests' at the centre of Brexit negotiations.

David Mundell, the Secretary of State for Scotland. Picture: Ian Georgeson

David Mundell, Secretary of State for Scotland, is meeting key groups and sectors in the Scottish economy before the UK holds negotiations to leave the European Union (EU).

He also said he would be “working closely” with the Scottish Government, which has not ruled out holding a second independence referendum in a bid to maintain the country’s links with Europe after 62 per cent of voters north of the Border voted for Remain.

Mr Mundell has already held talks with business leaders in Scotland following the shock vote in June’s referendum.

The Conservative now plans a series of discussions, meeting members of the oil and gas sector, farmers, the creative industries, the legal sector and new business start-ups.

Talks will also take place with local authorities across Scotland, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, the armed forces and the Young Scot organisation.

The Scottish Secretary said: “I am looking forward to meeting groups from across Scotland to hear directly from them what their priorities are following the vote by the UK to leave the European Union.

“My task is to ensure that Scottish voices and interests are at the centre of the negotiations to come, and that is why this engagement is so important.

“We are determined to take a ‘Team UK’ approach to this process, working closely with the Scottish Government and other partners as we form our negotiating strategy.”