EUROPE’S top Brexit negotiator is to discuss the stalled negotiations with MSPs next week.
Michel Barnier will meet members of Holyrood’s European Committee in Brussels on Monday to give his perspective on the slow state of talks with the UK.
After the last round, he complained there had been a lack of decisive progress on the main areas of the negotiations, including the size of the UK’s divorce bill.
Scottish Brexit minister Michael Russell will give evidence to the committee on Thursday.
SNP convenor Joan McAlpine said: “This meeting is a testament to the openness and transparency with which the European Commission is approaching the withdrawal negotiations.
“We will also highlight the consequences for Scotland if an orderly withdrawal and transition cannot be agreed between the UK and the EU.
“Speaking to Mr Barnier will allow us to gain a greater understanding of the direction of the talks and the consequences of the negotiations for Scotland.”
Labour deputy convener Lewis Macdonald added: “These are historic negotiations that will have a profound impact on Scotland and Mr Barnier’s willingness to engage with the Committee is extremely welcome.
“The talks do not appear to be making as much progress as had been expected. I am particularly concerned about whether any transitional arrangements can be agreed that allow us to maintain access to the single market in the short-term, and give us time to resolve difficult issues for the long term.
"I will be seeking to establish whether there is scope for continuing membership of the customs union and the single market in a transitional period.”
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