EU Nationals: UK Residence

Tom Brake Excerpts

Monday 4th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

I have already, in response to an earlier question, explained the position in relation to permanent residence. Those rights are there. Obviously we will retain and respect all existing rights while we remain a member of the European Union. My hon. Friend makes a number of points about potential solutions. Ultimately, that will be a matter for the next Prime Minister.

[Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD)]

Will the Minister join me in condemning Lord Pearson, who has said,

“it is we who hold the stronger hand if we retaliate, because so many more of them”—

“them” being EU citizens—

“are living here”?—[Official Report, House of Lords, 29 June 2016; Vol. 773, c. 1563.]

For two specific categories—the 10,000 EU doctors, just under 10% of the staff, who work in the NHS, and EU students who have just embarked on their studies—can the Minister give any guarantees that they will be able to continue?

[James Brokenshire]

On the right hon. Gentleman’s first point, I entirely agree—those comments are simply not acceptable. On his second point, yes, we know that about 50,000 EU citizens are working within the NHS. The contribution that they make is absolutely essential. I underline the points that I have made about the certainty that they have now in relation to existing EU rights, and working towards a position where we can give clarity moving forward.