Commenting on the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) application deadline today [Wednesday 30 June], Europe Minister Jenny Gilruth (pictured) said:
“I am deeply concerned that after today thousands of EU citizens in Scotland could be left in limbo, not knowing whether they can stay here because of the UK Government’s actions.
“These are people who have chosen to make Scotland their home and who continue to contribute so much to our society.
“In return they are being forced to live with unacceptable levels of stress about how Brexit will affect their lives, careers and families.
“They are our family members, friends, neighbours and colleagues and they all deserve so much better.
“People in Scotland overwhelmingly rejected Brexit and I do not believe that any sort of settlement scheme is necessary.
“I am equally disturbed by the UK Government’s refusal to extend the deadline despite repeated requests from the Scottish Government and third sector organisations, particularly in the face of the huge backlog of cases that are yet to be processed.
“My message to EU citizens remains the same: this is your home, you’re welcome here and we want you to stay.
“The Scottish Government will do everything within its power to help you to stay in Scotland and this includes supporting our partners to help people make late applications to the scheme.”
