Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has welcomed comments this week from Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson, who spoke of the need for EU reform and the lessons learned from the 2014 Scottish Referendum, in a keynote address to the 'New Direction' think tank in Brussels.
Mr Nicholson said:
"Northern Ireland and Scotland have had somewhat similar experiences of European Union membership, and it was refreshing to hear the 'eurorealist' perspective put forward by Ruth Davidson MSP.
"Of course, the Scottish people have had the very recent experience of a referendum, and it was enlightening to hear of the lessons learned from last year's vote on Scottish independence.
“I was therefore pleased to have the opportunity to meet with Ruth and to discuss her vision for the UK and our future relationship with Europe.
"The United Kingdom is not alone in wanting to address key aspects of the EU, such as seeking a greater role for national governments and ensuring a more business friendly approach to legislation. Many other member states would welcome EU reform.
“It is vital that Prime Minister David Cameron seizes the opportunity to negotiate a better settlement for Britain in Europe with a reformed EU and a strengthened United Kingdom at heart.”