Number 10 lobby briefing on Brexit talks and immigration
2 min read
Here is a summary of this morning's briefing for lobby journalists by a spokesman for the Prime Minister.
BREXIT TALKS
On reports that the EU has rejected Britain's proposals for avoiding a hard Irish border, the spokesman said: "We don't recognise these reports. We're confident that in the coming months, if all sides work together productively we can achieve a solution to the Ireland/Northern Ireland border that works for everyone involved. The Prime Minister was clear in her speech at Mansion House that the EU and UK need to work together to agree a solution.
"You've seen throughout this process, we have made progress at the key points, whether that be phase one or securing the implementation period. We're confident we can continue."
IMMIGRATION
Asked when the Prime Minister expects the Immigration Bill to be introduced, the spokesman said: "We've always said we're considering a range of options for the future immigration system, which will be based on the evidence. We will set out initial plans and publish a White Paper in the coming months. We are confident we can have a system which is ready for when we leave the EU."
Pressed on whether there will be preferential treatment for EU citizens looking to move to the UK after Brexit over those from the Commonwealth, he said: "That would be a matter for our future immigration policy. We have talked about the value those coming from the Commonwealth have made to our society and completely stand by that.
"This is a system that will be based on the evidence, on engagement with businesses, universities etc. On the broad principle, we understand the British people want control of our borders after we leave the EU and we will put in place a system that works in the best interests of the whole of the UK.
"At this point, I am not going to comment on future immigration policy before it is set out."
