A Tory MP’s call to deny welfare benefits to EU residents in the UK has sparked intense debate over citizenship, treaty rights, and the future of the welfare state
A Conservative MP has argued that EU citizens residing in the UK should not be eligible for welfare benefits, prompting controversy over rights protections and post-Brexit agreements.
A senior Tory MP has called for welfare eligibility to be restricted to British citizens, arguing that EU nationals living in the UK should be excluded from claiming state benefits. The proposal has reignited debate over the status of EU citizens and the terms of the UK’s post-Brexit social security arrangements.
Critics warn the move could undermine legal guarantees made under the EU Settlement Scheme and complicate already delicate relations between the UK and the EU. Under existing rules, those with settled status retain full access to benefits and social support.
Supporters of the proposal insist that UK citizenship should carry distinct protections. One MP said, “UK citizenship should mean something,” defending the idea that welfare should primarily support British nationals.