Scottish Government Debate: EU Membership Referendum: Impacts on Justice and Security

Michael Matheson S5M-02203 That the Parliament acknowledges the result of the UK referendum on EU membership in Scotland; recognises the continuing importance of EU membership to Scotland; acknowledges the benefits to the justice system of EU-wide cooperation and the extent to which the current Scottish justice system is shaped and informed by EU law, as well as the benefits to Scotland’s mixed legal system, which includes civilian elements; notes that any repeal of the EU justice and law enforcement measures will have an impact on the effectiveness of law enforcement and an increase in costs in law enforcement procedures due to the lack of harmonised systems and standards already established; acknowledges the pivotal role played by EUROPOL in facilitating and supporting the international cooperation necessary to combat cross-border crime and terrorism; resolves to promote Scotland’s willingness to continue to collaborate with European partners, and calls on the UK Government to ensure that Scotland has a role in the decision-making, as well as full involvement in all negotiations between the UK Government and the EU, to protect Scotland’s independent justice system. Douglas Ross S5M-02203.2 As an amendment to motion S5M-02203 in the name of Michael Matheson (UK Referendum on EU Membership: Impacts on Justice and Security in Scotland), leave out from “the result” to end and insert “the vote to leave the EU; recognises the benefits to the justice system of European cooperation and the extent to which the current Scottish justice system is shaped and informed by EU law, as well as the benefits to Scotland’s mixed legal system, which includes civilian elements; notes the international cooperation necessary to combat cross-border crime and terrorism; resolves to promote Scotland’s willingness to continue to collaborate with European partners and seek a continuously strong relationship with Interpol, as well as play a pivotal role with international partners such as NATO and the Five Eyes intelligence network; supports the UK playing a key role in the UN Security Council through its permanent seat, and calls on the Scottish Government to positively engage in shaping the UK’s negotiating strategy for leaving the EU." Claire Baker S5M-02203.1 As an amendment to motion S5M-02203 in the name of Michael Matheson (UK Referendum on EU Membership: Impacts on Justice and Security in Scotland), after “European partners” insert “; calls on the Scottish Government to undertake a full analysis of the impact of leaving the EU on Scotland’s independent justice system, to protect against any unforeseen consequences and to fully inform the negotiation process".