UK to appoint an expat Civil Servant to Andalucia

The Foreign Office yesterday reported that the UK will appoint a civil servant to the region of Andalucia in order to help the thousands of British expatriates there to integrate into the Spanish community.

Europe Minister Chris Bryant is due to travel to Malaga on the southern Spanish coast to formally announce the appointment.

The Andalucian civil servant will "provide advice to British citizens on integrating into the region", the Foreign Office said.

"The new civil servant will be able to answer questions on a range of issues such as registration, healthcare and property problems."

Tens of thousands of middle-aged and retired Britons have fled to the region for the benefits of the climate and relaxed lifestyle. However, Some expats have now found that their new homes in the sun are under threat of demolition, said the Foreign Office.

"I am visiting Spain to listen to the problems British citizens are facing with the properties they have bought here," Bryant said.

The civil servant will give local, informed advice to British citizens in this region.

Bryant continued - "I would advise people to be extremely careful with property purchases overseas”.

"We suggest that prospective buyers seek independent legal advice and contact relevant local associations of those affected by property problems… We continue to work with the government of Spain and relevant local authorities on resolving the issues that people face."