PM Bohuslav Sobotka says Britain cannot alter benefit rules for those working there

The Czech prime minister will also take to Brussels the message that planned reforms sought by Britain to curb immigration from other EU countries cannot impact foreign workers already in employment and paying into the British social system. It was not simply possible to change the rules for those already in work, Secretary of State for European Affairs Tomáš Prouza explained. The Brussels summit should grabble with the reform package sought by British Prime Minister David Cameron as well as the broader immigration issue. Cameron is seeking to finalise a reform package that could be put to a referendum on continued EU membership which could be held as early as June. Prouza said concessions to Britain had already been made in other areas.

Author: Chris Johnstone