This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scotland looks to Europe's future
24/09/2001
Scotland's devolved parliament should become more involved in the decision-making processes of the European Union, a conference in Edinburgh was told today.
Minister for Education, Europe and External Affairs Jack McConnell said there were five key principles of successful engagement with Europe.
"Our position in Europe is strong and we can build on that in a number of ways. We must be:
- Pro European Union - the EU is a force for progress as international problems require international solutions.
- Pro UK - being part of the UK gives us power and influence we would never have as a small country on our own.
- Pro Reform - reforms are needed to give a legitimacy to decision making.
- Pro regional involvement - devolved parliaments must be more involved in European decision making.
- Pro debate - there should be an open debate on the way forward, without closing down dialogue on options for change.
"The Future of Europe debate which will be conducted over the next three years, is important for Scotland and the UK and it must look at improving decision making within the EU. Decision making which we here in Scotland can influence.
"The debate must be about involving the public more and generating a feeling of ownership and a sense of belonging so they can buy into and influence the aims and objectives of the EU.
"Further opportunities for debate and discussion on some of the most topical and important issues for the EU will arise next month when we host our second Scotland Week in Brussels.
"This week of events will not only present Scottish perspectives but also views from a wide number of other prominent regional governments. The centrepiece will be a debate on the Future of Europe followed by events looking at different aspects of the future of rural development, regional economic development and of enterprise.
"Effective debate on the Future of Europe has to be open and wide ranging. The UK Government has shown that there is nothing to fear from engaging fully in such European debates. Scotland must play its part and ensure we influence the final outcome "
Mr McConnell also took the opportunity to launch c ommuniqué, the Scottish Executive newsletter on Europe and External Relations. The Newsletter will provide the public and interested bodies with up to date information on the work of the Scottish Executive on devolved matters in Europe and beyond.