EU Nationals: UK Residence

David Rutley Excerpts

Monday 4th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

Of course, I understand the point that the hon. Lady makes about wanting to act. We need to be careful about the unintended consequences and other implications of things that we do now, up front, to ensure that we get the best possible outcome for British citizens overseas. It is about looking at this in the round to achieve the best outcome. I think she and I both agree on that, but we differ on how we should go about it.

[David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con)]

I understand the concerns that have been expressed today. My mother is a Danish national who has lived in the UK for more than 50 years. My right hon. Friend has set out that there are complexities here. However, can he reassure the House that this is an urgent priority and that plans are being developed urgently, not only in the Home Office but by the EU Brexit unit that has been set up recently by the Prime Minister?

[James Brokenshire]

Yes, I can. My hon. Friend makes reference to the new unit that has been established, and this is certainly seen as an early item in that work.