The leaders of Scotland’s five political parties at Holyrood have issued a joint proclamation urging voters to back staying in the EU.
Ahead of today’s crunch vote, the heads of the SNP, Conservatives, Labour, Greens and Liberal Democrats called on Scots to back Remain.
In a joint statement, Nicola Sturgeon, Ruth Davidson, Kezia Dugdale, Patrick Harvie and Willie Rennie admitted they “disagree on much” but suggested the EU “transcends party politics” as it is “vital for jobs investment and opportunities”.
The vast majority of MSPs back Remain, although a number – including North East MSP Ross Thomson – are backing Leave.
The statement, signed by all five leaders, read: “As leaders of five political parties represented at Holyrood, stretching right across the political spectrum, we are asking the people of Scotland to vote Remain.
“We disagree on much, but this issue transcends party politics – staying in Europe and its single market of over 500 million people is vital for jobs, investment and opportunities for the people of Scotland.”
The leaders said “peace on our continent is a precious legacy and a powerful example to the rest of the world”.
The statement concluded: “We ask the people of Scotland come together on Thursday.
“We continue to hold different opinions on Scotland’s future.
“Some of us strongly believe the country’s future is best served with independence, while others strongly believe we should remain as part of the UK.
“But we can speak with one voice on the need to stay in the EU.
“Please vote for your family and your future on Thursday – vote Remain.”