SNP MP Joanna Cherry has warned Tory plans to end freedom of movement on October 31 will have “devastating” consequences for Scotland, and the lives of EU citizens who have made their home in the UK.
Cherry has written to new Home Secretary Priti Patel – after she confirmed that rules allowing EU nationals to live and work freely in the UK would end if the UK leaves the EU without an agreement at the end of October.
The Tory government intends to impose new border restrictions overnight on October 31 in the event of a No-Deal Brexit, despite reports that a leaked Whitehall paper warned that doing so could present “legitimate concerns of another Windrush”.
READ MORE: UK Government insists freedom of movement will end on Brexit date
Cherry, SNP Westminster spokesperson for justice and home affairs, said: “EU nationals make an extremely valuable contribution to this country, however the Tory government’s hostile approach to immigration is now targeting those very same citizens - many of whom have lived, worked and contributed to Scotland for most of their lives.
“Ending freedom of movement on 31st October would mean that EU citizens unable to prove their right to remain in the UK would be made unlawful residents overnight, exposing them to the hostile environment policy.
“The plan to end freedom of movement in less than 80 days, without any parliamentary scrutiny, is both reckless and wrong and leaves EU citizens in a state of uncertainty and instability.”
READ MORE: Brexit: EU chief immediately slaps down Boris Johnson backstop plan
The Scottish Government has launched a package of practical support to help EU citizens navigate the complex settlement scheme, amid concerns many are unaware of the need to apply or are hampered by technical difficulties.
Cherry added: “It’s a disgrace that almost three years since the EU referendum, Tory ministers continue to leave EU citizens in limbo by treating them as bargaining chips in order to pander to extreme right-wing Brexiteers.
“Given the widespread concern and distress these reports have caused, the UK government must urgently clarify their plans and guarantee the rights and status of EU nationals.”
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