EAST Lothian politicians have expressed their disappointment at the UK voting to leave the European Union.
However, the UK-wide vote was 52 per cent to 48 per cent in favour of the UK leaving the EU.
Following the vote, George Kerevan, East Lothian's MP, said: "As the local MP, I am hugely disappointed that the people of East Lothian may lose their European citizenship and rights because of a decision made elsewhere to quit the EU.
"I worry also for those hard-working EU citizens in the county’s colleges and hospitals who will be feeling personally insecure as a result of the Brexit decision.
“East Lothian voted 65:35 to remain in the European community. That convincing majority reflects the true aspirations of our county. I will take that as my mandate in deciding how to vote on any measures brought before Parliament regarding the EU. I will be consulting with those most likely to be affected, including our farmers.
“It is now the paramount duty of MPs of all political parties to protect Scotland’s interests in any exit negotiations. If those interests are threatened, we should not flinch from seeking alternative direct links with our European neighbours.”
Meanwhile, Musselburgh MSP Colin Beattie said: "First and foremost, this was a democratic process and we must respect the decision of the people of the UK, however marginal this result was.
"However, this has to be framed in the context of the Scottish result, where we voted overwhelmingly by a margin of two to one to stay in the European Union.
"The will of the Scottish people must therefore not be ignored.
"Personally, I regret the UK decision and am deeply concerned that Scotland is being dragged out of the EU against its choice.
"I am certain that the long-term will see Scotland prosper, but the next few years will almost certainly see unnecessary hardships foisted upon ordinary working families."
The shock decision to leave the EU has already seen Prime Minister David Cameron announce that he is to resign later in the year.
Meanwhile, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said that a second Scottish independence referendum is now "highly likely".
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