Claire Armitstead’s article struck a chord with us (Thanks to James Cleverly, I may never live in the same country as my kids again, 6 December). We are in the same situation. Our elder son and his Polish fiancee are getting married in four months’ time. The plan was to apply for a spousal visa immediately after the wedding. They were looking at properties and making plans for their life together in Britain. Because of the increase in the salary threshold to £38,700, they now have to rethink their entire future at short notice. Personable young people, with several languages and three degrees between them, they have a lot to contribute to whatever country they settle in.
Why should my son have to choose between his wife and his country? British citizens should not be forced to emigrate on marriage.
Judith King
Droitwich, Worcestershire
• Claire Armitstead’s article made me weep. I am in the same boat, with both my sons living abroad. The one living in Switzerland has a wife with British and New Zealand passports, so there is a chance that they might be able to return one day in the future should they wish.
But my son who lives in Egypt and is married to an Egyptian woman is unlikely to ever hit the earnings threshold due to the difference in income between the two countries.
I now have four grandchildren and I am lucky if I get to see them once a year as it’s difficult for my Arab daughter-in-law to even get a visa to come to the UK on holiday, the conditions are so strict.
People seem surprised when I tell them of my family’s plight. Too few people are aware that getting married to a British national does not guarantee the right of residence in the UK. It’s tearing families like mine apart. It’s cruel and inhumane.
Bridget Cousins
Scarborough, North Yorkshire
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