South Lanarkshire is losing out on £3,107 from its GDP as a result of being part of the United Kingdom when production is compared with Scotland’s neighbours in north west Europe.

New research by the House of Commons Library shows the UK’s GDP is 12% lower than the average in north west Europe, making it worse off than countries such as Ireland, Finland and Denmark.

Currently, South Lanarkshire produces £25,004 but applying the 12% GDP gap, it could be producing £28,111 if Scotland was an independent country capable of fulfilling its potential like other small European nations.

Commenting, Christina McKelvie MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse said:

“These stats are a damning indictment of Scotland’s position within the UK and just like South Lanarkshire Council, every local authority in Scotland has a lower production level compared with countries in North West Europe that are of a similar population size to Scotland.

“Councils across Scotland, including here in South Lanarkshire, are being held back by the UK and these stats demonstrate that. The only way Scotland can realise its full potential is by becoming an independent country.

“As small independent countries continue to flourish, Scotland cannot be left behind. We cannot trust the Tories to protect Scotland, the only way to do that is by becoming an independent country.”