SNP minister seeks clarity on rights of EU nationals

The Scottish Government has called for clarity over proposals on the rights of EU nationals living in the UK after Brexit, as negotiations resumed in Brussels.

Ministers have published a response to the UK Government’s plan, as the second round of formal talks began with citizens’ rights under discussion.

Scotland’s Brexit minister Michael Russell said while it is welcome that EU citizens now have some clarity, some “essential issues” still remain uncertain.

Under UK ministers’ plans, set out last month, EU nationals resident in the UK will be able to apply for “settled status” – effectively guaranteeing them indefinite leave to remain in the UK once Britain leaves the EU.

Any EU citizen who has been living in the UK continuously for five years will be eligible, while those who have been resident for less than five years will also be allowed to stay to build up to five years.

Ministers have yet to confirm the cut-off date for qualification.

The Scottish Government said there are a number of important questions over “settled status”, including who will qualify, what rights they will be entitled to, rules for family members and the cost of applying.

Clarity is also needed over the rights of Irish citizens, and on how rights will be protected without the European Court of Justice, the Government said.