The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced today plans to help make it easier for EU citizens who live in the capital to access online the information they need so that they can stay in the UK after Brexit.
There are approximately one million EU citizens living in London – and while their rights post-Brexit have not yet been agreed by the European Union and the UK, the Government has stated that they will need to apply for ‘settled status’ to remain here after Brexit.
Sadiq has called for the UK to remain part of the EU Single Market, with continued qualified freedom of movement ensuring that EU citizens would retain their rights to live and work in Britain.
But as negotiations with the EU continue, and the future status of EU citizens remains unclear, Sadiq is concerned that it could lead to unnecessary worry for EU nationals and their families in London and around the country who have faced uncertainty since the referendum in June 2016.
In particular, these people may have concerns regarding a possible language barrier, their employment status and ability to access services or understanding legal processes.
Whatever the outcome of negotiations, EU citizens need access to accurate and up-to-date information and advice about their rights. To make the process as straightforward as possible, the Mayor intends to launch an online portal for EU citizens in the capital.
This website will provide information about European citizens’ rights post-Brexit and signpost the most vulnerable to advice and support services in London. It will direct users to expert legal advice, support services and guidance on employment rights.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The Government dragged its feet in respecting the rights of EU nationals in the UK – so it is fully understandable that many living here in the capital are still nervous about the process for them remaining here.
