Probably the most interesting byproduct of the eu ‘vote war’ has been the attitude of one of the young girls who works at Dudley. I knew she spoke German because she said she had lived there for some time and I used to throw an odd phrase or two out to see if I could still be understood.
As the time of the referendum approached I noticed she seemed quite concerned above and beyond any normal expectation, especially as I don’t think she was old enough to vote anyway. So I asked what she was worried about and she said she would love to vote ‘remain’ because she had been born in Germany and was worried she would be deported. I soon put her right on that one, telling her I’d adopt her before I let them deport her.
Back on to the serious stuff, although she and her familly once started out life in the craddle of Aryan civilisation – India. They were all German nationals either from birth or adoption of citizenship. I did a quick google (they can’t touch you for that…) and found a whole heap of information regarding becoming a British citizen. Even though the girl has spent most of her life in the UK and hates the thought of being deported to Germany, she still has to go through the application process.
So on to the cost: I saw her again Saturday and she had looked into becoming a British Citizen and found it will cost her approximately £1000 if she applies before her 18 birthday or about £1600 after that date. I wish her well and would definately be on the list for a hand out if I cop a worthy win on the Lotto. I should love to be able to say that I helped a reluctant Kraut become British 😉