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Spain to falter Scotland EU membership

2012-01-22 18:18:00
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Madrid says it might veto Scotland's accession to the European Union as an independent state for fear that the move could encourage separatist ambitions in the Spanish state.

The Spanish government that has already refused to recognize Kosovo's existence as an independent state fears such moves could lead to a break-up in the Spanish regions, particularly Catalonia and the Basque region.

Last Week, Catalan Premier Artur Mas spoke of similarities between Catalonia and Scotland as he argued for a new financial deal with Madrid.

Meanwhile, a Scottish National Party spokesman said it was "preposterous" to suggest that Scotland could be excluded from the EU.

"Scotland has been an integral part of the EU for almost 40 years. An independent Scotland would be a succession state, not an accession state, and there is no provision for citizens of the EU to be expelled," he said.

The Spanish veto would undermine claims that Scotland could immediately operate as an independent state in the European Union.

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