“It’s down to organisations like EMiS to keep the flame burning for an open, democratic and inclusive Europe” says Alyn Smith.
Stirling SNP MP Alyn Smith has accepted the European Movement in Scotland’s invitation to become its fourth serving vice president. He joins MSPs Sarah Boyack (Labour), Patrick Harvie (Scottish Greens) and Willie Rennie (Scottish LibDems) as EMiS VPs.
Alyn Smith served as an MEP for Scotland for 15 years.
Commenting on his new position, he said:
“It’s a huge honour to take on this role in an organisation so integral to Scotland’s relationship with the European Union. We must always remember that European solidarity and cooperation has been forged through the horrors of war, and the enduring struggle of democracy against tyranny and authoritarianism. Despite the calamity of Brexit, our geography has not changed.
“Europe, the European Union and all the subsequent organisations of mutual solidarity still exist and remain important to Scotland’s future safety and success. In these strained political and economic times, it’s down to organisations like EMiS to keep the flame burning for an open, democratic and inclusive Europe.’
Welcoming the new VP, EMiS Chair David Clarke recalled Alyn Smith’s stirring speech in the European Parliament, following the UK’ s vote to leave the EU.
“Alyn’s speech reaffirmed Scotland’s proud European identity. We’re thrilled to have his support for our movement.
“We are pleased too that Alyn joins our president, David Martin – a former Labour MEP – and the other VPs from Scottish Labour, Scottish Greens and LibDems in these honorary positions. Their presence clearly demonstrates that when it comes to Europe, Scotland stands united. We are all keeping a light on for Scotland.”
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