Business chiefs voice concerns over EU citizens plan
Many business leaders in Great Britain feel that employer frustration will not be eased by the UK government’s latest EU migration plan, and worry that the UK could lose out on skilled EU workers.
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Adam Marshall, director-general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said that, while the business community welcomed the fact the government had finally set out its plan, there was "a tinge of regret and frustration".He added: "This offer could have been made loudly and clearly nearly a year ago in the immediate aftermath of the referendum, which would have spared individuals, communities and employers significant angst and worry. Signals matter, and the UK government's lack of clarity until now has meant that many UK firms have lost valued members of staff, with others saying that key employees are thinking about leaving."The UK and EU must strive for an ironclad, reciprocal guarantee on citizens’ rights as soon as possible in the Brexit negotiations. Individuals and businesses - both here and on the Continent - cannot be left in limbo until the conclusion of the final Brexit agreement." Josh Hardie, deputy director-general of the Confederation of British Industry, described the government's plan as an important first step."Protecting the rights of EU citizens here and UK citizens abroad is the right priority at the outset of the negotiations, and firms will look forward to an early resolution of this issue," he said.“Both sides need to provide reassurance for millions of employees, giving certainty for businesses and starting to build real momentum to the negotiations.“Companies will also expect a low-cost, speedy and simple solution to be put in place for EU citizens to establish their right to settlement in the UK.”
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