Thread by @JoanMcAlpine

Very important statement @ScotParl today from @RichardLochhead on future of @EUErasmusPlus and @EU_H2020 in Scotland post Brexit

The concerns he outlined today were similar to those revealed in the extensive enquiry by @SP_European into @EUErasmusPlus - you can read more about our report here

https://twitter.com/sp_european/status/973925224239521794

Shockingly despite the best efforts of @scotgov and @RichardLochhead the UK Treasury refuses to commit post Brexit to Erasmus+ which brought in €90 mill from 2014-19. Scotland punches above its weight and secures more Erasmus funds than other UK nations

The UK will prevent Scotland from future participation @EUErasmusPlus after #Brexit and insist they will launch their own scheme - but their alternative focuses on Higher Education, cutting out colleges and community groups who benefit from @EUErasmusPlus in Scotland

I agree with @RichardLochhead . @EUErasmusPlus is all that is good about EU. It brings people together the UK is intent on pulling us apart. He promised to put pressure the UK ask them to ensure people from all walks of life and social classes benefit from Erasmus or replacement

But Scotland’s hands are tied. The only way to continue to fully benefit from @EUErasmusPlus is if Scotland becomes an independent member of the EU.