LETTER: Appalled by Government's refusal to reassure EU nationals in Eastbourne

These may be our friends, neighbours or have integrated now as members of our families who contribute to our town in so many ways.

We value them and yet we all face the effects of the uncertainty.

How many of us are appalled and dismayed by the government’s refusal?

Can you keep quiet or even feel comfortable about the threat this implies to the personal and family life for all those who could be forced summarily to leave the country and town that has been their home and employer?

Many younger men and women have grown up here and know no other life than the one they have now.

Who is prepared to stand up for them and their human rights?

The NHS as it is could not operate without EU nationals, nor could the hotel industry that is essential to the town, and they provide us with many other services that would otherwise suffer if they went.

There is still time for MPs to vote for more humane policies – and we can all take personal responsibility for our actions and attitudes.

So this is an appeal to the electorate of Eastbourne: Come on, let’s join together in giving the EU nationals living in our midst the appreciation and respect they deserve.

Margaret Hueting, Elm Grove