The SNP has been forced to admit there will be border checks between an independent Scotland in the EU and the rest of the UK, which has been described as a "hard border" by rivals. And ministers also confirmed that it could take five years for the country to even join the trading bloc. But it is the prospect of a border between its biggest trading partner that will strike fear into businesses. Called a "Single Trade Window", ministers expect traders to submit documents in advance "resulting in fewer and faster checks at the border." And on currency, officials admit that they need to begin a new Scottish currency before even starting the EU accession process.

Source: Express November 17, 2023 12:42 UTC