Security needed for EU Citizens

The UK Government must continue to provide social security payments due to EU citizens even if they have not yet applied to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

Since the EUSS deadline passed on 30 June, the UK Government has continued to pay ongoing social security entitlements to EU citizens who have not applied.

However in a letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Thérèse Coffey, Minister for Europe Jenny Gilruth notes that these payments will be suspended at the end of September and discontinued completely from the end of October.

The letter states:

“Poor literacy, a lack of knowledge of English, mental and physical illnesses and disability are all reasons why someone may not have applied to the EUSS.

“Terminating benefits may lead to homelessness, destitution, hunger and poor physical and mental health.

“Action to stop payments is unnecessary and disproportionate with a clear risk of harm to people who require our support.”

Background

The letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions from the Europe Minister can be read on the Scottish Government website: EU citizens - continued support: letter from the Minister for Europe to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

The UK Government has sent letters to EU Citizens who have yet to apply to the EUSS, which state:  'If you do not make a late application, you will not be able to work or access public benefits and any benefits you receive will stop.'