NICOLA Sturgeon has the backing of the opposition parties to protect Scotland’s place in the EU.
The First Minister will make a statement in the Scottish Parliament today and MSPs will debate the referendum result and the implications for Scotland after a majority in the county voted to remain.
Battle lines are also being drawn over the prospect of a second independence referendum.
Ruth Davidson cautioned against using the EU result to further calls for Scottish Independence while the Greens, with whose support a Bill could go through backed preparations for a second attempt.
In the meantime, the Tories, Labour, Greens and LibDems have backed the First Minister taking a key role in the EU talks over the coming months and years.
The First Minister said she will seek to keep Scotland in the EU, while the Tories back efforts to ensure access to the single market and Labour have prioritised workers’ rights and jobs.
Ms Sturgeon asked the Parliament to give her the go ahead to get a deal for Scotland in talks with the UK, and with other EU member states.
She said: “I am now determined to explore every avenue to retain Scotland’s EU status, and today’s parliamentary debate is a vital part of that process.
“I am specifically asking Parliament to strengthen my hand by giving me a mandate to pursue discussions about protecting Scotland’s place in the EU with the UK Government, other devolved administrations, EU institutions and member states.”
Ms Sturgeon’s wish will be granted with all parties backing her involvement.
Ms Davidson, said: “The aim must be to protect and maximise our trade within the European Union area and ensure continued access to the single market.
"That means the UK Government and all the devolved administrations working closely together to get the best settlement going forward.
“It is encouraging that the First Minister has already held discussions with the UK government and London Mayor to further this approach.
“However, we would caution the SNP against using these negotiations to further their aim of independence.”
Labour will give the First Minister their support in negotiations and said the voice of the majority of Scots must be heard.
Ms Dugdale said: “The decision to leave the EU will cause untold damage to Scotland's economy and standing in the world. Every possible avenue must be explored to not just mitigate the impact of Brexit, but to strengthen our ties with our European neighbours. The protection of jobs and workers' rights must be the priority.”
The Greens and the LibDems are also supporting the motion.
Ross Greer, Scottish Greens European spokesman, said the Scottish Government is right to begin preparations for a potential future independence referendum.
He said: “When life-long opponents of independence say they are changing their mind, the response of those of us who voted Yes in 2014 must be to welcome that change and continue to build the case for an independent Scotland which can play its full part in Europe."
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