The British people have decided to leave. It is a sad decision but one which I respect. The vote puts the European Union in difficulties. It must recognise its shortfalls.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
The decision of a majority of people in the United Kingdom to vote to leave the European Union is profoundly disappointing.
If we left the European Union, it would be a one-way ticket, not a return. So we will have time for a proper, reasoned debate. At the end of that debate you, the British people, will decide.
I hope Britain stays in the European Union, but I don't want to decide for the British.
There are great things that Britain can do in the future as a progressive beacon. By voting Leave, we have that opportunity.
A U.K. vote to exit the European Union could have significant economic repercussions.
Let me be absolutely clear: I think it is defeatist to sort of say we want to leave the European Union. We're going to try and change the rules and change the way it works and change the objectives that it has in order to make it something that works for Britain.
Being in the European Union has its advantages, and I think that is what the British are beginning to understand, what those who are tempted by the Brexit are going to reflect upon.
We want the United Kingdom to remain in the European Union.
The UK is not going to leave the European Union. Of course not. We are inextricably wound up with Europe. In terms of culture, history and geography, we are a European nation.
It would be a very serious mistake for the U.K. to vote to leave the European Union, and I think it would be democratically indefensible for Scotland, if we had voted to stay in, to face the prospect of being taken out.