By Roger Mullin, MP for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath

'LAST week I put down an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising the role the European Union (EU) has played in bringing peace to Europe. It has already attracted cross party support.

It is too easy nowadays to forget that in the first half of the 20th century there were over 50 major conflicts in Europe including two world wars. Indeed, over many centuries, it has been a continent riven by wars.

That we live today in a Europe where since joining the EU no member states have ever had a military conflict with one another, and where negotiations, however, tough, have replaced a call to arms, it is little wonder the European Union won the Nobel Peace prize in 2012. That seems a pretty positive reason for supporting the EU at this time. But it is far from the only reason. Many readers of this column will have many benefits of membership of the EU. These include,1. Freedom of travel to live, work and holiday in Europe.

2. Cheaper mobile charges.

3. Cheaper air fares.

4. Tariff free access for local business to sell goods and services throughout Europe.

5. No paperwork or customs for exports throughout the EU.

6. Access to European health services while holidaying or working in Europe.

7. Extension of many workers’ rights.

8. Having much more variety of goods and services available in our shops.

9. Cross border policing to combat human trafficking, arms and drug smuggling and terrorism, with Scotland’s Police Service able to engage with forces throughout Europe to help protect us.

10. Funded opportunities for young people to undertake study or work placements abroad.

And so the list could go on. I of course believe in an Independent Scotland. I want us to be as independent as France or Denmark or Germany or Belgium or any of the other member states in Europe. But we benefit from maximizing our engagement internationally. Our voice is heard rather than silent when some of the most important issues are being discussed.

One further issue. The current debate has become, in my judgment, completely distorted by a nasty debate about immigration. I have no sympathy with either side of the debate seeking to raise false concerns or demonise people. I am concerned about some of my constituents who feel shunned and hurt by rising tensions. People like Thomas and Elke Westen who have lived for years in this constituency running successful local businesses but because of their German origin getting out of the country before the vote (they were allowed to vote in the Scottish Independence referendum but are barred from voting in the EU referendum) and considering leaving permanently if there is a vote to leave.

Scotland needs the talent and jobs that people like Thomas and Elke bring to Scotland. Scotland should be open for business and a welcoming society. That is my hope for the future, and why I will be voting to remain in the European Union'.