Pro-EU campaign takes to the streets to persuade voters

The Scottish campaign for an In vote in the EU referendum is to step up its drive to highlight the benefits of remaining in the union.

A 'growing number' of volunteers are working with Scotland Stronger In Europe, with a series of street stalls staffed over the weekend to take the 'top eight facts' of EU membership for Scotland to voters.

The non-party political group said research showed people are more likely to vote to stay in Europe when they feel informed of the issues.

Voters will decide if the UK stays in or leaves the EU in a referendum vote on June 23.

A leaflet listing job, trade, safety and investment benefits is being distributed by the In campaign.

Senior spokesman John Edward said: 'Scotland Stronger In Europe are stepping up our activity this weekend, with volunteers organising events across the country. We are heartened by the number of people who have contacted us wanting to help, and who find the non-party political and upbeat nature of our campaign refreshing and attractive. The polls show Stronger In with a big lead in Scotland but we are not complacent, which is why we are working hard. Our research shows that people want the facts on the benefits of being in the EU, and that the more informed they feel themselves to be, the more likely they are to vote to stay in Europe.'

All of Holyrood's party leaders support an In vote, with few prominent political figures in Scotland so far backing the campaign to leave.

Conservative MSP Margaret Mitchell became the first Holyrood politician to speak publicly in favour of leaving the EU last week but says she remains open to persuasion.

Ukip MEP David Coburn, former SNP deputy leader Jim Sillars and Nigel Griffiths, former Labour MP and ally of Gordon Brown, all back Brexit.

Polling in Scotland also suggests the majority of Scots want to remain in the EU, with recent polls indicating as many as two-thirds back an In vote.

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