Members of the European Parliament could block an independent Scotland’s EU membership if it insists on keeping currency and border treaty opt-outs negotiated by the UK, sources in the two largest political groups in Brussels told EurActiv.
Scotland will likely have to reapply for EU membership as any other prospective member state according to MEPs and EU officials.
Even if Scotland can secure the unanimous backing of the 28 EU member states – far from certain when countries like Spain and Belgium are struggling with their own independence movements - its accession will still be put to a vote of the Parliament.
A Socialists and Democrats source said, “The opt-outs they're pushing for would make it very difficult for them to get membership.”
Scottish independence leaders want to remain in the EU. But they also want to keep UK opt-outs on the obligation to eventually join the euro, the passport-free Schengen zone, and the British VAT rebate.
The nationalists plan an 18-month twin negotiation that would simultaneously achieve separation from the UK and EU membership. But it isn't clear if a country can legally negotiate for EU membership before being independent.
Sources in the European People’s Party (EPP) and the Socialist and Democrats group said Scotland could be blocked if it didn’t pledge to move towards adopting the euro as any other prospective member state must.
The socialist source said, “We are deeply concerned about the prospects of a yes vote in the referendum.”
Euractiv Article
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