In the Commons Home Office minister James Brokenshire has said the government cannot reassure EU nationals whether they would be able to remain in Britain in the coming years.

For over 9000 EU nationals living in Cambridge, 12% of staff at Addenbrookes and 27% of post-doctoral researchers at Cambridge University who are from other EU countries this spells yet more uncertainty.

Daniel Zeichner MP said: “This is outrageous and down right irresponsible. In a city like Cambridge, we do well because we attract the best and brightest from around the world who drive innovation and success for the whole economy. The EU referendum has already caused jitters. Now is the moment to reassure EU citizens working here not pile on more uncertainty. The Government should remember the thing about a global workforce is they can up sticks again easily which would have dire consequences for our city and country.”