MEPs are concerned about the UK/EU Settlement Scheme and the set-up of the independent authority.

At the heart of the debate on Brexit for MEPs was freedom of movement, the length of the transition period and limiting the damage to EU and UK citizens’ lives.

In a resolution adopted on Wednesday, MEPs take stock of citizens’ rights in the context of Brexit and highlight that their consent to the Withdrawal Agreement will take into account “experiences gained and assurances given” about their protection.

The European Parliament expressed concerns, especially about the application-based approach used in the UK/EU Settlement Scheme, the absence of physical proof for successful applicants, and its accessibility, among other issues.

MEPs questioned the set-up and independence of the UK’s “independent authority” foreseen in the Withdrawal Agreement, stating that they would welcome the establishment of a joint European Parliament – UK Parliament scrutiny mechanism.

The adopted text calls for information campaigns to be launched to prepare citizens and urges governments in EU27 member states to adopt consistent and generous measures to provide legal certainty for UK citizens residing in their territory.

The resolution was adopted with 610 votes in favour, 29 against and 68 abstentions following a debate on Tuesday that focused largely on the future of freedom of movement and limiting the impact of Brexit on citizens’ lives.

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