Former PM Gordon Brown argues for stronger Scotland within U.K.

Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and NO campaigner in Scotland's Independence Referendum meets pupils at Kelty Primary school in Kelty Scotland Friday Sept. 19, 2014. (AP / Garry F McHarg/PA)

LONDON - Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown says Scotland should get more sweeping powers but remain in the United Kingdom.

Brown entered the fray over the region's future Saturday with a speech in Scotland saying Brexit makes the case for Scottish independence weaker, not stronger.

He said Scotland should be able to set some tax rates, sign international treaties, and have more control over agriculture, fisheries, environmental regulation, employment and energy.

Brown played an important role in 2014 when he helped convinced Scottish voters to stay in the U.K.

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon seeks another independence referendum, but Prime Minister Theresa May has rejected holding another vote now.

Sturgeon seeks a vote in late 2018 or early 2019.