New analysis from an economic expert has found that an independent Scotland returned to the EU could be worth up to £3,000 for every Scot.
The findings put a potential figure on the economic value of Scotland restoring its place in the European single market.
Professor Nick Bloom of Stanford University estimates that Brexit has shrunk the UK economy by up to 8%, costing around £3,000 per person through reduced trade, increased red tape and economic uncertainty.
The SNP argues that an independent Scotland rejoining the EU could reverse some of the economic damage it attributes to leaving the European Union.
The party has also pointed to comments from CBI Chief Executive Rain Newton Smith that “Brexit was bad for business”.
Separate analysis from the London School of Economics has estimated that additional paperwork affecting food products following Brexit has increased grocery costs for the typical UK household by around £250 a year.
The SNP has linked the latest economic arguments to the renewed debate over another Scottish independence referendum following comments from Prime Minister Andy Burnham about the conditions under which another vote could take place.
SNP Depute Leader Keith Brown said:
“Andy Burnham has stated the conditions for an independence referendum and now we know one of the prizes on offer, an independence dividend worth up to £3,000 for every person.
“Brexit has been an utter disaster for Scotland’s economy and public services, Westminster will never take us back into the EU, independence is the only way to make it happen.
“Leaving the EU has damaged growth and investment, costing the public finances £250 million every day, so much of the cost-of-living crisis that is hurting people across Scotland today can be traced back to the decision to drag us out of the EU against our will.
“Andy Burnham is wedded to Brexit, so it is encouraging that he has set out the process and recognised the need for allowing the people of Scotland a choice over our own future.
“Only by taking our place as an independent nation in the EU can Scotland turn the page on our chapter in broken Brexit Britain.
“Scotland needs a fresh start with independence.”
