But has there ever been a case where a new member has all the necessary legal framework in place that is required when a new member joins the EU? The 10-year (is that average?) negotiation period you mention is down to new members not qualifying for membership due failing all or some of the EU acquis chapters and taking time to reorganise their domestic structures and systems of law, et al.
Outside of the political machinations, I'm sure that Scotland could very easily be fast-tracked into the EU based on this absolutely essential requirement. Scots law is already fully EU-ready.
Outside of the political machinations, I'm sure that Scotland could very easily be fast-tracked into the EU based on this absolutely essential requirement. Scots law is already fully EU-ready.