Ten years after the UK voted to leave the European Union, the Scottish Government has renewed its criticism of Brexit, arguing that the economic and social consequences continue to be felt across Scotland.

Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Minister for Europe and External Affairs Stephen Gethins is expected to outline the Scottish Government’s position on the anniversary of the 2016 referendum and the steps it says are needed to rebuild Scotland’s relationship with Europe.

The anniversary comes amid continuing debate over the long term impact of Brexit on trade, investment, public finances and opportunities for young people.

The Scottish Government argues that Scotland has experienced economic harm despite voting overwhelmingly to remain in the European Union.

Mr Gethins is expected to tell Parliament:

“Scotland is a proud European nation, and we believe that membership of the European Union is vital for the sake of our security, prosperity, and our people.

“For businesses, leaving the European Union introduced friction where there was once fluidity, barriers where there was access, and uncertainty where there was stability.

“Scotland has suffered an estimated £3.3 billion cut in 2025 alone that could have been invested in our NHS because of a Brexit that people in Scotland overwhelmingly rejected

“Cost of living pressures have been exacerbated at a time when families can least afford it with a £250 increase in food and drink bills due to leaving the EU.

“There is a particular tragedy for young people.

“Every political generation should leave more opportunity than they themselves enjoyed.

“We cannot say that with the removal of the freedoms to live, learn and work across the EU.

“Scotland’s future lies in restoring our place at the heart of Europe.

“This Parliament has the opportunity to offer the people of Scotland a fresh start with independence and it is one that we must grasp.”

The Scottish Government says its current approach focuses on strengthening relations between the UK and the European Union while ensuring Scotland’s interests are represented in discussions affecting trade, education, research and international cooperation.

Supporting its position, ministers point to research suggesting Brexit has reduced economic growth, investment and productivity across the UK.

According to figures cited by the Scottish Government, the UK’s economy in 2025 was estimated to be between six and eight per cent smaller than it would have been had the country remained within the European Union.

Other research suggests post Brexit trade barriers have increased the cost of food imports, contributing to higher household grocery bills.

A decade after one of the most significant political decisions in modern British history, Brexit remains a defining issue in Scottish politics, with arguments continuing over its economic impact, Scotland’s place in Europe and the country’s constitutional future.