The latest column from the Midsomer MP.

Last week, the Minister for Safe and Legal Migration, Kevin Foster, wrote to all Members of Parliament updating them on the EU Settlement Scheme, giving further information about support for applicants.

As six months have passed since the main EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) deadline, the Minister wanted to detail the assistance that still remains available to constituents should they still need to make an application. The Scheme has been an overwhelming success, securing the rights of EU, EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members and their continued economic and social contribution to the United Kingdom (UK). Eligible citizens who missed the 30th June 2021 application deadline can still submit a late application at: www.gov.uk/eusettlementscheme. Moreover, a wide range of help is available to vulnerable applicants via the Government's £3 million funding extension for the network of seventy-two organisations across the UK. Details can be found at www.gov.uk/government/publications/eu-settlement-scheme-community-support-forvulnerable-citizens/list-of-organisations. Unfortunately, as the programme is free to apply for there have been speculative applications or the use of fraudulent documentation, which delays the system and prevents caseworkers from processing legitimate applications more efficiently. It is, therefore, essential that those who wish to apply access the website provided in order to check that they meet the criteria. People who have made a valid application to the Scheme have their rights in the UK protected until they receive an outcome to their application and any appeal. The initiation of the EU Settlement Scheme is just one aspect of the Brexit process shewn to be successful and I am delighted that citizens in North East Somerset who qualify are able to remain, with the Government helping them to secure the status they deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact me: www.jacobreesmogg.com / [email protected]