European Union: Freedom of Movement

Debate between Baroness Williams of Trafford and Lord Hannay of Chiswick

Thursday 12th January 2017 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

My Lords, that will certainly be determined in negotiations as we exit the EU.

[Lord Hannay of Chiswick (CB)]

My Lords, will the Minister, rather than answering a question she was not asked, answer the question she was asked by the noble Lord, Lord Dubs? He asked why we do not now apply the three-month rule, not what we will apply when we have a new relationship. I understand that she is not prepared to say that, but will she now answer his question and say whether she thinks that if we decided now to start applying it we would put ourselves in a much better position when we start the negotiations?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

My Lords, I think I did answer the noble Lord’s question. Each member state implements the free movement directive through their respective domestic legislation, all of which have different nuances within them.

Brexit: EU Citizens

Debate between Baroness Williams of Trafford and Lord Hannay of Chiswick

Monday 24th October 2016 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

There certainly is merit in leading by example, but there is definitely a disbenefit in showing your hand too soon.

[Lord Hannay of Chiswick (CB)]

Could the Minister perhaps be so kind as to have a different approach to the one she has taken so far and confirm that the British Government will not themselves place on the negotiating table any removal of rights to any EU citizens who are here? I am sure that if that assurance could be given, which was implicit in what the Minister said in her original Answer, it would be very helpful.

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

The answer to that is that we want to get the best deal for everyone, both our citizens living abroad and EU nationals living in this country.