Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay
Londoners have welcomed mayor Sadiq Khan’s and Guy Verhofstadt MEP’s proposal of an ‘associate EU citizenship’ for British citizens who would like to continue using their right to freedom of movement after the transition period comes to end.
The proposal is gaining praise from people outside of London as well, who say that their mayors should initiate similar plans so that they can also enjoy the EU’s freedom of movement if they wish to do so.
Tim Walker, an award-winning journalist, welcomed the mayor of London’s proposal by tweeting: “My view is London – resolutely remain and sick of being taken for granted – should now vote to get into some kind of distinct arrangement with the EU.”
Many fellow Remainers agreed with Mr Tim Walker, arguing that London overwhelmingly voted to Remain and should therefore be allowed to retain some of the benefits that come with an EU membership.
Jonathan Lis, the Deputy Director of British Influence, expressed his praise for mayor Sadiq Khan’s initiative. In a social media post, he tweeted: “Khan is right to press for associate EU citizenship. Brexit has confiscated something precious from millions of people.”
Meanwhile, EU nationals living in London have expressed their delight at the mayor’s initial proposals. A great number of EU nationals living in the UK are currently considering becoming naturalised British citizens to cement their legal status, which could mean that they may have to abandon their previous nationality. Thereby, losing their right to freedom of movement.
However, if Sadiq Khan’s and Guy Verhofstadt’s plans do materialise then EU nations could simultaneously ensure their continued legal status with a British passport as well as continue to enjoy their EU rights.
On the other hand, sceptics say that this proposal may not materialise because it is wishful thinking that a Tory super majority would be willing to accommodate the proposals of Remainers.
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Muhammed Raza Hussain is an award-winning writer: the Extra-Mile winner of the News Quest Young Reporter Scheme 2014 and the recipient of the ‘Talent for Writing’ certificate by Young Writers. Twitter @MuhammedRaza786 | Instagram: @M.Raza.H_
