British MPs accused the European Commission of creating uncertainties by refusing to provide clarity on the future of the UK citizens living in the European Union and by not providing guarantees on the status of those citizens. 80 British members of the Parliament signed a letter calling on the European Commission to end the uncertainties.

European Council President delivered a harsh rebuke in an open letter, where he said, “I read your letter with great interest. Your concern for the status of EU citizens in the UK and UK citizens living and working in Europe bodes well for the future negotiations, especially since we have assumed that one of the main reasons for the vote for Brexit was the rejection of the free movement of people and all the rights it entails, as defined by the European treaties.”

He added that it is far from reality that the European Commission attempting to prevent negotiations. Instead, he said, “Would you not agree that the only source of anxiety and uncertainty is rather the decision on Brexit? And that the only way to dispel the fears and doubts of all the citizens concerned is the quickest possible start of the negotiations based on Art. 50 of the Treaty?”

He stressed that the only way to resolve uncertainty is to trigger Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty and start the negotiation process at the earliest. He argued that it is the British, who are creating uncertainties since the EU stands ready to start negotiations.

It is quite clear from the recent wordings that it would be hard fought negotiations. Read the full letter here, http://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2016/11/29-tusk-letter-uk-mps/