In recent days there have been two major developments that will have an impact on the Brexit process; the extension to Article 50 and the upcoming General Election.

The first occurred on Monday 28 October, when the European Union (EU), agreed to an extension to Article 50. This means that as things currently stand, the UK is unlikely to leave the EU until 31 January, 2020.

However, if a withdrawal deal between the UK and the EU is agreed by Parliament before this period, and it is passed into law by Parliament, the UK may leave before this deadline.

The University remains committed to ensuring all students and staff are supported, whatever Brexit outcome occurs:

• Students and staff who need information or support on any Brexit issue can view the University’s Brexit Hub.
• Staff can also speak to someone in person in the Human Resources team  
• Students can contact International Student Support: email international.support@sussex.ac.uk, Tel: (0)1273 678422 

In addition last week, two University Brexit events took place, the first was an EU Staff Brexit forum organised by HR, where the Vice-Chancellor spoke with EU colleagues’ to hear their views and outline the support the University can provide.

At this session the Immigration Advisory Service (IAS), gave a presentation on the Temporary Leave to Remain/EU Settlement Scheme and legal advice. The presentation can be viewed here.

The second event was an all staff webinar that focussed on the work of the University’s Brexit Group and the preparations it has in place in the event of the UK leaving the EU. The webinar was presented by Michelle Gordon, Director of External Relations and Bridget Edminson, General Counsel, who are both members of the Group.

General Election

The second development is that a UK General Election will be taking place on Thursday, 12 December. Therefore, until a new government has been formed, the direction and outcome of the UK’s Brexit situation remains uncertain.

The University will be continuing to ensure that students are aware of how to register to vote, and all students will receive information via several channels explaining how to check if they are eligible to vote and how to register.

Staff can view the government’s Register to Vote webpage to check their eligibility and register to vote in the next general election.

The University, the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) and the Students’ Union are currently working together to arrange a hustings event for students and staff, where they will be able to hear from and question local candidates standing in the upcoming General Election.

Details of this event will be sent to all students and staff in due course.