Brexit - Stay Informed
With Brexit at the forefront of the news, leaving the EU with a deal remains the Government’s top priority.
For the UK to leave the EU it had to invoke Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty which gives the two sides two years to agree the terms of the split. This process was instigated on 29 March 2017, meaning the UK is scheduled to leave at 11pm UK time on Friday 29 March 2019. A European court has ruled that the UK can decide to halt the process and stay in the EU at any time up to the deadline. Alternatively the process can be extended if all 28 EU members agree. But at the moment all sides are focusing on that date as being the key one.
As things stand, the UK is due to leave the European Union on 29 March 2019, regardless of whether there is a deal with the EU or not.
The main point of having a deal between the UK and the EU is to ensure as smooth as possible an exit from the EU for businesses and individuals – and to allow time to hammer out a permanent trading relationship.
As we move through March it’s a good time to consider what you need to do if you are an EU citizen. As an EU citizen, you and your family members will be able to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 31 December 2020. That will allow you and your family to continue to live, study and work in the UK.
The EU Settlement Scheme will fully open by 30 March 2019. In line with the draft Withdrawal Agreement, you will be able to apply until 30 June 2021 and your rights will remain unchanged until then. To find out more about what you need to do next visit http://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families.
Look out for posters and leaflets available in break out areas and on your nearest Connections Notice Board. These can also be found here.
Should the Government progress to leaving the EU with a no deal scenario then a further update will be provided.