Alyn Smith: “What we're looking for is a normal accession process.”

One of the reasons Scottish institutions are at risk is because our universities are so excellent.

I am pleased to confirm we will partner with the UK Government to develop plans for DTECs in Scotland and build on the £3.7 billion to Scotland’s economy provided by the defence sector.

Protecting those relationships means ensuring that international engagement is underpinned by appropriate due diligence, robust risk management and access to the latest security advice.

Strong global relationships, including our academic and research links with China, make an important contribution to Scotland’s education, skills and research sector.