Perthshire politicians John Swinney MSP, John Nicolson MP, Roseanna Cunningham MSP and Pete Wishart MP have welcomed the publication of online factsheets detailing the rights of EU nationals living in Scotland.
The factsheets are the result of a Scottish Government partnership with the legal and human rights organisation JustRight Scotland. They are published in English, Polish, Romanian, Lithuanian, Spanish and Italian, with more translations being considered in the future.
Commenting, Mr Swinney said:
“The Scottish Government has committed to supporting EU citizens as much as possible in the face of a cruel Tory Brexit. We will continue to make sure that EU citizens feel valued and welcome in Scotland, whilst ensuring that we protect their rights to the fullest extent of our powers.”
Mr Nicolson added:
“Scotland is an open and inclusive country and our fellow EU citizens are much-appreciated members of our society. They are our friends and our neighbours. They make vital contributions to our economy. And, as a No Deal Brexit looms, each of us has our part to play to ensure that Scotland remains a welcoming country.”
Ms Cunningham added:
“With the UK Government apparently determined to drag us over the precipice of a hard Brexit, come what may, I am pleased that the Scottish Government has taken the important step of supporting EU citizens at this unsettling time. We need to know that they are welcome here and that we want them to continue to contribute to our communities and our country.”
Mr Wishart added:
“With the UK Government’s seeming eagerness to pursue a damaging No Deal Brexit, it is more important than ever that we do what we can to assist EU citizens. Even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, I have regularly been contacted by constituents who are terrified at the prospect of Brexit and what it means for their rights. I am hopeful that these factsheets will provide useful guidance in such an uncertain time.”
