SNP MSP Richard Lochhead has made an impassioned plea to EU citizens living in Moray to stay in Scotland amid ongoing Brexit uncertainty.
It follows First Minister Nicola Sturgeon making a commitment to them that Scotland remains their home and promising to continue to make a strong case for their rights to be protected in any EU exit scenario.
Mr Lochhead has previously campaigned successfully to push the UK government to scrap the £65 “settled status” fee and hosted two public meetings in Moray to offer advice and support to EU nationals living in the local community.
He said: “It is important to make clear that EU citizens will always remain welcome in Moray, and I will continue to do all I can to help people stay in Scotland.
“It’s wrong for the UK government to make EU citizens who have built their lives in Scotland, and who contribute massively to our economy and communities, to apply for the continued right to remain in their own homes.
“With absolutely no clarity from Westminster, this announcement from the first minister will provide welcome support for EU citizens across Scotland.
“I know from the public meetings I held in Findhorn and Elgin for EU nationals living in Moray that there’s a great deal of anxiety and confusion, so this support from the Scottish Government will no doubt be welcomed locally.
“I’d like to urge anyone who has issues or concerns they would like to discuss with me to please get in touch.”
