Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between James Davies and Robert Goodwill

Monday 5th September 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Goodwill]

I repeat again that there is no change in the status of EU nationals living and working in the UK. The issue is not simply about the immigration status of an individual; EU citizens’ rights are far broader than just the right to reside in the UK. The right to work, entitlement to benefits and pensions, the rights of access to public services and the ability to be joined by family members from countries outside the EU all need to be discussed.

[Dr James Davies (Vale of Clwyd) (Con)]

22. The Minister will be aware that the NHS would currently not be able to function without the input of skilled migrants from across the world. Indeed, there are currently 236 known non-Irish EU migrants employed by the health board in north Wales alone. What assurances can he give about the status of existing EU migrants working in the NHS, and, post-Brexit, how does he see future migration policy taking into account the needs of the health service?

[Mr Goodwill]

I hope I have already made that clear, but I recognise that EU citizens make an invaluable contribution to our economy, our society and our daily lives. They provide vital services, including in the NHS, where almost one in 10 doctors and one in 15 nurses are from an EU country. That is why the Government will seek an early resolution to this issue.