Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham has stated Scotland 'remains determined' to continue working with other European countries on climate change following Brexit.

Speaking as she attended this year's UN climate talks in Marrakech, Ms Cunningham said the UK's decision to leave the EU had created "new complexities and difficulties" for Scotland's position in the organisation.

In addition, she warned Brexit would reduce Scotland's access to financial support to develop climate change schemes.


"Climate change is one of the defining issues of our age," she said.

"It is a global problem which requires a global solution. International co-operation is vital and recent events haven't changed that reality.

"However, it's already clear the Brexit vote has created new complexities and difficulties, threatening our place in the European Union – a progressive, powerful and influential voice in these global talks.

"Our contribution to global climate change diplomacy is in jeopardy and our access to financial support programmes is at risk.

"Scotland continues to lead the UK, and most of Europe, in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We have exceeded our ambitious target for 2020 six years early.

"In Marrakech, I will ensure Scotland's voice is heard and that our friends across Europe and beyond are left in no doubt that the Scottish Government remains determined to lead by example."

(LM/MH)