The proposals from the UK Government on safeguarding the position of EU citizens living in Scotland, and Scots living in EU countries, leave many important questions about day-to-day issues unanswered, according to the Minister for UK Negotiations on Scotland’s Place in Europe.
Michael Russell said the Scottish Government have called for answers on a number of essential issues affecting citizens, such as the right to vote, access to services and to benefits.
These include what the introduction, by the UK Government, of the new immigration category of “settled status” will mean for those who qualify for it, and what rights they will be entitled to.
Another question is the process and cost of applying for settled status, and for temporary residence during the grace period will be and what the rules will be for the family members of EU citizens
And the scope of wider rights, including for those who have previously worked in the UK or lived here on a temporary basis is also a concern as is the cut-off date will be for EU citizens already in the UK to be considered as on a path to settled status
Mr Russell said: “EU citizens make a vital contribution to Scotland and to our economy, society and culture. They must have clarity about their future rights and what Brexit will mean for them and their families. It is important that this issue be concluded as soon as possible.”
The Scottish Government’s full response is available on the website here.
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