Nicola Sturgeon: New Brexit deal treats Scotland unfairly

The First Minister said it is now “clearer than ever” that independence is the best future for Scotland, as reported in the Herald.

Her comments came as Boris Johnson confirmed a “great new deal” has been reached with Brussels following days of intense negotiations.

However, the DUP has said it still cannot back the plans, which would see Northern Ireland remain aligned to some EU rules.

The party's support is seen as key to getting the proposals through Westminster.

READ MORE: Brexit deal agreed with European Union, Boris Johnson announces

Ms Sturgeon said: “While there remains uncertainty over whether this proposed deal will pass, what is absolutely clear is that it would take Scotland out of the European Union, out of the single market and out of the customs union against the overwhelming democratic will of the people of Scotland.

“Scotland did not vote for Brexit in any form, and SNP MPs will not vote for Brexit in any form – especially when it is clear that Scotland, alone of the nations of the UK, is being treated unfairly.

“We support efforts to ensure peace and stability on the island of Ireland, in line with the Good Friday Agreement, which must be respected.

“At the same time, it cannot be right that Scotland alone is facing an outcome it did not vote for – that is democratically unacceptable and makes a mockery of claims that the UK is in any way a partnership of equals.

“The Brexit envisaged by Boris Johnson is one which sees a much looser relationship with the EU when it comes to issues like food standards, environmental protections and workers’ rights.

“That is not the future that I or my government envisage for Scotland.

“And in the circumstances which now prevail it is clearer than ever that the best future for Scotland is one as an equal, independent European nation.

"That is a choice I am determined to ensure is given to the people of Scotland.”