Remain campaign should highlight environmental benefits of EU membership, says Stephen Gethins

The official campaign to keep the UK in the European Union should highlight the environmental benefits brought by membership of the bloc, according to SNP MP Stephen Gethins.

Stephen Gethins, the party’s Europe spokesperson, said the Remain campaign should focus on the “positive impact that the EU has when it comes to issues like the environment and the development of energy policy”.

Humza Yousaf, the Scottish Government’s minister for Europe, has been announced as director of the SNP’s remain campaign, with Gethins acting as deputy campaign director.

Gethins’ comments follow a report from EY warning next month’s EU referendum is “creating concerns over the risk profile of UK investments”.

Gethins said: “It is time to press the reset button on the EU Referendum campaign so the case can be made afresh for our continued membership of the EU - that means highlighting the positive impact that the EU has when it comes to issues like the environment and the development of energy policy, social policy and being part of the largest trading bloc in the world.”

He added: “The EU makes us wealthier – allowing small businesses to flourish and access to trade, investment and labour. It makes us greener at times when climate change needs to be tackled across borders. It makes our society fairer by protecting workers rights and at uncertain and dangerous times – it makes us safer by working together.”