BIK_116.80
"For example, a non-EU citizen who is the spouse of an EEA national can live and work in any EEA country. Spouse of EEA National visas are issued under EU law." Tell that to immigration at LHR terminal 1.
Not so for working in the UK.
The spouse i.e. EU national must move to the UK, be established in employment and of course accomadation. Then the British embassy, in whatever country they spouse comes from will interview both parties. Upon a successful outcome from the interview, the non EU national will be given a stamp in the passport for 1 year (renewable) leave to reside and accept employment in the UK, provided the spouse remains in the UK.
Believe me I have had 1st hand experience at this one, 3 years ago.
Can't blame the Brits. It's called job protection. The yanks have a similiar system.