may reach on its future, in contrast to Belgrade's adverse relations with Kosovo, this would not be a precedent in favour of opposed secession. Hence, Scottish EU membership in the event of secession is definitely not automatic. On the other hand, it should be possible to negotiate a seamless transition towards independence with EU membership that does not disrupt the lives of the people of Scotland. However, such an outcome requires significant preparation and pro-active diplomatic engagement, instead of the present state of confusion.  Marc Weller is professor of international law and international constitutional studies in the University of Cambridge and director of the Lauterpacht Centre for International Law. He was legal advisor for Kosovo in its independence negotiations, and consultant for the African Union in the pre-referendum negotiations on South Sudan, advisor to Kofi Annan in the present crisis concerning Syria, and served as senior mediation expert of the United Nations. The views expressed are not attributable to any institution or organization. This website and its associated newspaper adheres to the Press Complaints Commission's Code of Practice. If you have a complaint about editorial content which relates to inaccuracy or intrusion, then contact the Editor by clicking here . If you remain dissatisfied with the response provided then you can contact the PCC by clicking here . Scotsman.com provides news, events and sport features from the Edinburgh area. For the best up to date information relating to Edinburgh and the surrounding areas visit us at Scotsman.com regularly or