THE UK Government must give businesses certainty over the future trading arrangements it expects to secure with the EU and countries such as Canada, Economy Secretary Keith Brown has said.

Brown said ability to boost trade and encourage inward investment with countries such as Canada will be put at risk without further clarity.

His comments came ahead of a speech he will make to the Toronto Region Board of Trade – the largest and most influential chambers of commerce in North America with more than 12,000 members.

Brown will say trade links with Canada, which are worth nearly £500 million in Scottish exports a year, must be protected. About 3600 jobs in Scotland are provided by Canadian companies. Brown, said: “We are increasingly concerned about the potential damage that coming out of the single market and customs union will do to the Scottish economy. Businesses are making investment decisions for 2019 now and need urgent reassurances.

“Right now, firms in Canada know Scotland is part of the EU single market and businesses in Scotland know they can trade with Canada. The UK Government must provide clarity on future trade arrangements to limit economic damage.

“Scotland’s trade links with Canada are going from strength to strength. Our food exports have increased by 37 per cent over the last year, and are worth more than £94m. We are committed to increasing our presence in Canada to build on trade and commerce connections and seek new economic opportunities.”