That article doesn't say what you apparently think. Just like blibble, I have to ask if you read the first line.

"Home Office says in letter that it cannot give unilateral assurances until status of Britons in other EU countries is protected"

(emphasis mine)

have you read the first line?

> Home Office says in letter that it cannot give unilateral assurances until status of Britons in other EU countries is protected

Then maybe they should not exit the union? The brits have to come with all the answer, and can expect no help being given since they are the ones breaking up the relationship.

I cannot quite understand the thinking behind this comment (even if I'm in a country staying in the union).

It appears that some people in the union want to retaliate to the British for wanting to leave the union and thus insulting the honour of Juncker et al. They are even ready to shoot their own foot in retaliation, instead of just accepting that Britain leaves and life goes on, and new agreements are made, and trade goes on based on new agreements, for mutual benefit.

Most assuredly the relationship of Britain and EU will have to be formed based on proposals and answers from both sides. It would be really, really strange if EU could make general schemes of preferential trade with Cuba and South Sudan but not Britain, out of sheer malice.

Well we accept that UK leaves. UK now have to accept to leave the EU market. No issues just clarifications on accountablilities.