Free movement for new EU migrants ‘could END by March’ as PM sets out Brexit vision
THERESA May is reportedly expected to announce an end to free movement for new European Union migrants next month as the Government’s Brexit plan beings to be pieced together by ministers.
Rees-Mogg attacks Merkel on EU migrant deal failure
The Prime Minister is said to be poised to set the cut-off for arrivals of European migrants as the same day as she triggers the formal process of leaving the Brussels bloc.
But the move has sparked fears of a wave of EU migrants seeking to enter the UK before Article 50 is triggered.
Mrs May is reportedly set to say that EU migrants arriving before the deadline – expected to be March 15 – will have their right to free movement protected, as long as British citizens living in Europe are granted the same assurance by Brussels.
Theresa May is set to announce a cut-off date for new EU migrants after the triggering of Article 50
Leading Leave campaigner Iain Duncan Smith praised the Prime Minister's plan
We could end up with half of Romania and Bulgaria coming here if we wait that long
But EU citizens arriving after the set date may be subject to migration curbs, including a stringent visa regime and cuts to benefits for migrants, according to the Telegraph.
Top Brexiteer Iain Duncan Smith praised the move, claiming the Prime Minister is “commanding the high ground”.
Lib Dem peer says Theresa May could REVERSE Brexit
He said: “Theresa understands that if you want to take control you have to command the high ground.
“She will be giving clarity by setting a clear deadline while the European Union looks increasingly muddled and mean-spirited.”
The Prime Minister could face backlash from EU leaders
But Mrs May could come into conflict with other European and EU leaders over the official cut-off date, with Brussels wishing to push the deadline back as late as possible – 2019, when Britain officially cuts ties with the bloc.
A Government insider told the Telegraph: “We have had some suggestion that the European Commission might attempt to force us to protect everyone who arrives up to the moment of departure.
The Government is also reportedly considering taking the political edge off the topic of immigration by setting up an independent body to determine how many visas should be issued.
Home Secretary Amber Rudd assured the Government would be “ending free movement as we know it”.