Labour's Ian Murray calls for Brexit transition to be extended

Appeal to Scottish Secretary for support

Ian Murray says the transition period must be extended beyond December 31

LABOUR’S Ian Murray has appealed to Scottish Secretary Alister Jack to support an extension to the Brexit transition period, currently due to end on December 31.

The Edinburgh South MP and Shadow Scottish Secretary claimed it was now impossible to secure a deal that protects businesses and workers before the end of the year.

He noted that Scottish Tory leader Jackson had called for a “pragmatic” approach to the issue.

Mr Murray wrote to Mr Jack: “The pragmatic response for the UK Government is to urgently apply for an extension to the transition period.

“This is not a time for constitutional politics and business do not need any more uncertainty.

“The entire focus of all governments in the UK must be on working together to tackle the coronavirus outbreak and then dealing with its aftermath to ensure our economy recovers.

“I therefore hope you will support your party leader in Holyrood, and business leaders across the UK, and address this issue with your Cabinet colleagues at the earliest possible opportunity.”

In his letter Mr Murray also raised concerns about the Job Retention Scheme announced by the UK Government to allow workers to be furloughed.

He said too many people were falling through cracks in the system, particularly new-start employees.

He wrote: “We believe mechanisms could be deployed to ensure those who began new jobs after the cut-off point could be included in the scheme.”

And he called for the UK Government to increase its efforts to help people stranded overseas to get home.

He wrote: “Many airlines that are still operating are charging exorbitant fares which means commercial travel is not affordable for most. “

“My constituents who are still stuck abroad need more certainty that their Government will get them home as soon as possible.”