‘Theresa May must act’ as poll shows backing for EU nationals’ rights
Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, has again urged Theresa May to finally reassure EU nationals living in Scotland and all across the UK that their residency status will be protected as a new poll published today revealed strong public support for the move. A BMG Research poll published in today’s Independent revealed 58 per cent of people want the UK government to guarantee the right of EU citizens to continue living and working in the UK, while just 28 per cent disagreed.
Mr Newlands has consistently called on the Prime Minister to confirm that the residency status of EU nationals living in the UK will be protected following Brexit. Commenting Gavin Newlands MP, said: “After months of uncertainty and xenophobic rhetoric the UK government must finally end its disgraceful treatment of EU nationals and give them the reassurance that they will be able to continue living and working in Scotland and elsewhere in the UK. “EU nationals make a huge and valued contribution to our society – they benefit our economy, they play a vital role in our public services, and they make our society richer and more diverse and the Scottish Government is working hard pursuing every option to protect the rights of EU citizens living and working in Scotland. “In contrast, the UK government is following a policy that seeks to use our friends, family, neighbours and colleagues as bargaining chips. It is an insult to those who have chosen to make our country their home and who contribute so much - it is dividing our society, damaging our economy, and driving away talent.
“When everyone from Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to former Tory Leader Michael Howard want to see the government give a guarantee to EU nationals it’s time for Theresa May to listen and act now.”
