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| Photo: The Diplomat |
Since the autumn of 2016, EuroCitizens has worked closely with the British Embassy in Spain as part of our campaign to defend the rights of UK residents in Spain after Brexit. Hugh Elliot arrived in Madrid five years ago, at a particularly difficult juncture for the Brexit negotiations and for British nationals living here. On his impending departure, we wrote to Hugh to thank him for his work on citizens' rights (see below). He has kindly replied to us (see below), describing our approach to the UK Embassy as a 'mix of frank challenge and constructive engagement'.
We very much look forward to having such a positive relationship with the incoming HM Ambassador Spain, Sir Alex Ellis. Despite all the progress that has been made, there are still issues that need attention, such as the phasing out of the old green resident cards and the need for all UK residents in Spain to apply for a TIE or foreigners' ID card (more information) .
Reply of HM Ambassador Spain:
«Thank you very much for your kind email. The Brexit years have been so turbulent and worrying for so many people, it has been a privilege if we have been able to be of some help. If even those like myself very closely involved with the many twists and turns struggled at times to understand absolutely everything that was going on, I can only imagine how difficult it was for those at more of a distance, concerned about the very real impact on their lives.
I have been full of admiration for what Eurocitizens has done during this period, and am particularly glad that we have now moved beyond most of the issues. The new government’s clear priority is on resetting its relationship with Europe.
I agree about the productive relationship: I’ve admired the mix of frank challenge and constructive engagement you have always brought. I’m sure the strong relationship will continue under my successor, Sir Alex Ellis.»
Email of EuroCitizens Chair, Nigel Aston:
«I am writing on behalf of EuroCitizens to thank you for your efforts on our behalf during the past five years and to wish you all the very best going forward. Your initial year, of course, was complicated by the pandemic, coinciding as it did with the transition period.
I
think it is true to say that many of the worst fears of our members did
not come to fruition. The approach taken by the Spanish authorities to
introduce TIEs was sensible and, generally, proportionate and we thank
you for the influence that the Embassy had on this. We all accept that
there have been on-going annoyances but, thankfully, satisfactory
outcomes were reached on the few serious cases with which we have been
confronted.
We feel that we have a productive relationship with the Embassy and trust that this will continue with your successor. Of course, there have been difficult times behind the scenes on political issues, including those manufactured in the UK. Your support for our interests was not distracted by these and we are grateful for all your help in assuaging members' concerns as Brexit became a reality. And your personal kindness towards individual members was much appreciated.»
