US Homeland Security confirms we're British

UKIP MEP, Nikki Sinclaire:

has secured a pledge from the US Secretary of State of Homeland Security to protect the British identity of UK citizens travelling to the United States.

Seemingly a bad show that we're having to rely now on the US of A to protect our national identity but, as per usual from the UKIP, things are not exactly what they may seem...but first, the obligatory dig at Brussels:

The West Midlands MEP this week welcomed Janet Napolitano, America's first female head of Homeland Security, to “the pedantic European Parliament” and highlighted the better quality of freedom of speech that is enjoyed in the USA.

Good, having got that out of our system:

The Secretary of State responded to Ms Sinclaire's call for American assurances that the UK citizens will continue to be recognised as UK citizens only following the Lisbon Treaty on entry to the USA and not deemed European Union citizens.

I think (and I just know someone will show me where I'm wrong;) that "only" contradicts the actual position, which is defined under the Treaty of Rome (as opposed to Lisbon):

Every person holding the nationality of a Member State shall be a citizen of the Union. Citizenship of the Union shall complement and not replace national citizenship.

But we should thank Ms Sinclaire anyway I guess.

Away from the pontless grandstanding, this was a much more worthwhile request:

Ms Sinclaire also called for a more simplified visa process for British citizens seeking to spend longer periods in the US, this included a cheaper route to contacting the American embassy and simplified application process. The Secretary of State confirmed that this issue would be considered.