EU Parliament Standing Ovation as MEP Demands 'Do Not Let Scotland Down'

The standing ovation from MEPs is the strongest signal yet that any attempt by Scotland to negotiate continued membership of the EU could be met with a favorable response.

Although the UK voted to leave the European Union by 51.9% last week, Scotland voted to remain by 62%. Although the exact method by which Scotland might continue its membership — short of declaring independence from the UK — is uncertain, the Scottish Government is now seeking talks with European leaders.

Addressing the meeting of the EU Parliament Tuesday, Alyn Smith said:

"I want my country to be internationalist, cooperative, ecological, fair, European — and the people of Scotland along with the people of Northern Ireland and the people of London and lots and lots of people in Wales and England also voted to remain within our family of nations. I demand that that status and that 'esprit européen' be respected."

"Colleagues, there are a lot of things to be negotiated and we will need cool heads and warm hearts, but please remember this: Scotland did not let you down. Please, I beg you, cher colleagues, do not let Scotland down now."